Definition

Stuttering is a speech disorder. It causes a person to repeat sounds, syllables, or words. Some sounds may be long and speech may be interrupted.

Causes

The exact cause is not known. It may happen when:

• A child's ability to speak does not match his verbal demands
• Certain genes
• A person has a stroke, head trauma, or other type of brain injury
• A person has emotional trauma (rare)

Muscles and Nerves Involved in Speech

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Risk Factors

Stuttering is more common in males and in children who are 2 to 6 years of age. Family history also raises the chances of stuttering.

Symptoms

Problems may be:

• Repeating sounds, syllables, or words
• Making long sounds within words
• Between-word pauses and lack of sound
• Spurting speech

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. A speech language therapist may also do an exam. This is often enough to make the diagnosis.

Treatment

There is no cure. The goal of treatment is to manage symptoms. This can with therapy to:

• Improve the ability to speak smoothly
• Learn ways to lessen stuttering, such as speaking more slowly or using breathing methods

Prevention

There are no current guidelines to prevent stuttering.