What is a Speech and Language Therapist?

A Speech and Language Therapist is a specialist in communication and swallowing difficulties.

What services do we offer?

• We offer services to adult inpatients admitted in hospital and see patients in our outpatient clinics
• We provide assessment, treatment and management of communication and swallowing difficulties for adults
• Management and treatment will be specialised depending on each individual case

What are swallowing difficulties?

• Swallowing difficulties may occur when there are changes to the strength, movement or coordination of the muscles of the face, mouth and throat
• Problems which might tell you that you have a swallowing problem could be coughing, throat clearing, changes in voice sounds to wet/gurgly, drooling or retaining food or drinks in your mouth during eating and/or drinking
• Swallowing difficulties can also result in weight loss or chest infections
• The Speech and Language Therapist will be able to advise you on the best way to manage these problems

What are communication difficulties?

• Communication difficulties is where a patient has difficulty understanding what others are saying, or have difficulties with speaking, difficulty reading or writing, and showing slurred speech
• These difficulties can result in frustration and miscommunication between one another
• The Speech and Language Therapist will be able to assess and advise you the best way to communicate

If you are experiencing communication or swallowing difficulties, please consult your doctor and request for a referral to a Speech and Language Therapist.