Aphasia is a total or partial loss of the ability to speak correctly or to understand or comprehend what is being said. It may be caused by brain injury or disease. It's most often caused by a stroke that injures the brain's language center, located on the left side of the brain in most people. Some people with aphasia recover quickly and completely after a stroke. Others may have permanent speech and language problems.

• Speech problems can range from trouble finding words to being unable to talk at all. Some stroke patients describe it as “having trouble getting words out.”
• Some people have problems understanding what others are saying or have trouble with reading, writing or math.
• In other cases, a person with aphasia may have trouble talking but can understand what others say perfectly.

Each person's speech and language problem is unique. A language professional (speech therapist) can help set up a treatment plan and help others understand the needs of a person with aphasia.

For stroke information, call the American Stroke Association at 1-888-4-STROKE.

Related AHA and ASA publications:

• Caring for Someone With Aphasia 
• How Stroke Affects Behavior 
• Living With Disability After Stroke 
• Let's Talk About Being a Stroke Family Caregiver (in Let's Talk About Stroke kit)
• Other sheets from the Let's Talk About Stroke kit

Related AHA Scientific Statements:
Stroke