Hi, I have had two strokes, the first left me debilitated ten years ago, but the second, nearly three years ago left me unable to swallow. Now, because I can’t swallow, even my own spit, I talk funny. This means that when I ring someone up to change an appointment or query a prescription there’s a lot of questions and repeating myself. This happens to the extent that I’m becoming wary of talking to anyone. Does anyone have any help?
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Hi, I completely understand where you’re coming from. After my stroke in January I was unable to swallow for three weeks and I also developed vocal cord palsy, so my voice is still very hoarse and weak. I often have to repeat myself on the phone and it can become exhausting and quite upsetting at times, especially when people don’t understand or become impatient.
One thing I’ve found helpful is telling people right at the start of the call that I’ve had a stroke and my speech is affected. Most people become much more patient once they understand the reason. I also try to use speakerphone and slow myself down a bit, even though it’s frustrating.
Please don’t lose confidence in speaking to people. Your voice may sound different now, but you still deserve to be heard and understood. Hopefully with time and speech therapy things may continue to improve as well.
You’re definitely not alone in this. All the best Peter.
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@Lappaman Hi Peter, some kind words. I hadn’t thought of explaining why I talk like I do, it hadn’t even crossed my mind. I’ll start straight away. I’ll let you know the result. Thanks Philip.
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@PhilipS i agree with @Lappaman try explaining at the start of a call & most people will be more understanding. I also use the speakerphone when I make calls…for some reason since my stroke I find it much easier.
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I came on to say just the same as @Lappaman 
Remember, people are not mind readers, if they don’t know you have speech issues they could just as easily assume you were drunk. The first thing I say when speaking to anyone new; just say you have aphasia. Some people still remember when Bruce Willis first announced he had aphasia, so many recognise that word. You’d be surprised just how patient and accommodating people become once they know, particularly over the phone. Their speech slows down and do tend to give you all the time you need to get your words out. And what’s more, they don’t make an issue of it.
Don’t hold yourself back by not talking, the more you talk the better the chances of improvement.
Lorraine
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@Mrs5K Hi I already use the speakerphone thank you, but I’ll have to tell them about my speech being impaired. Philip
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If you have an iPhone there is the Live Speech function where you can type while on a phone call and it will voice it. If you don’t have an iPhone, I am sure Android has a similar function. The fact that you are using your voice is excellent, but it may be exhausting and frustrating in certain situations over the phone. The technology is there to be used, so if you feel it might help, you can always tell the person you are going to use Live Speech (or equivalent) for the conversation.
The more we use these aids, the more people get used to them, user and receiver.
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@Rups thanks for this. I’ll let you know how I get on.
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