Don’t Take Your Speech & Hearing For Granted   More than twenty-one million infants, children and adults in America suffer from some degree of hearing loss or communication and language disorder. "Even a very slight hearing loss can have an impact on your daily life," said Cheri Knick, speech-language pathologist at Carilion Stonewall Jackson Hospital (CSJH). "Hearing loss is treatable, and there is no reason for anyone to miss the important sounds of life." “Many Americans have a communication or swallowing disorder and cannot express simple thoughts like ‘thank you,’ or ‘I love you,’” Knick added. “Speech and hearing problems can affect people of all ages, from all walks of life.” Problems with speech, language or hearing can take many forms, potentially limiting academic achievement, social adjustment and career advancement. An individual may be born with a speech or language disorder or hearing problem, or it may be caused by accidental injury or illness. "Fortunately, most people with speech and language problems can be helped," said Knick. "Even if the problem cannot be eliminated, we can teach people strategies to help them cope. People may not fully regain their capacity to speak and understand, but a speech-language pathologist can help them live more independently." You may have a hearing loss if you frequently ask people to repeat themselves, turn your ear toward a sound to hear it better and understand people better when you wear your glasses or look directly at their faces. Other signs of hearing loss: experiencing pain or ringing in the ears, losing your place in group conversations and keeping the volume on your radio or TV at a level that others say is too loud. Other communication or swallowing disorders might reveal themselves in speech through stuttering, delayed language, jumbled words or no speech at all. If you suspect you or a loved one may be experiencing a communication or swallowing disorder, consult a speech-language pathologist. An annual hearing checkup by an audiologist is a good idea for people age 45 and older. For more information, contact CSJH Therapy Services at 458-3211, or talk with your physician.

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