Common speech problems encountered in general practice.

Abstract

The authors consider speech and communication in the light of whole patient care and point out that defects may be signs and symptoms of underlying organic disease. They describe the four classifications of speech disorders-articulation, rhythm, voice and language, with an indication of the speech therapy required and duration of treatment. Special emphasis has been given to those speech problems which are seen by the family physician; these are usually of the articulation group. A short discussion of stuttering and aphasia is given. Emphasis is put on the direction of treatment by the physician and the use of well-qualified personnel as members of the rehabilitation team.