What causes speech impairments?

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Many different things can cause speech impairments, including drug abuse, brain injury, hearing loss, neurological disorders, mental retardation, or physical impairments like a cleft palate or lip. Verbal or physical abuse can cause speech impairments as well. However, it is not unusual for the cause of speech impairment to be unknown.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Physical Disabilities

Physical disabilities can be sensory, where there are problems with sight, hearing or speech, or they may impair motor function, so that movement is restricted or imprecise. Injuries may cause a disability, and disease such as a heart condition may also make normal exertion impossible. Some disabilities start at birth - congenital disabilities. Others are acquired during life. If you have a disability, it is almost certain that there are many others who do also. Most conditions have support groups or associations that have grown up relating to the problem. These groups may offer specialized help to minimize the effect of the condition.

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