Stuttering
Stuttering is a speech disorder in which sounds, syllables, or words are repeated or last longer than normal. These problems cause a break in the flow of speech (called disfluency).
Outlook (Prognosis)
In most children who stutter, the phase passes and speech returns to normal within 3 or 4 years. Stuttering that begins after a child is 8 - 10 years old is more likely to last into adulthood.
Possible Complications
Possible complications of stuttering include social problems caused by the fear of ridicule, which may make a child avoid speaking entirely.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your provider if:
- Stuttering is interfering with your child's school work or emotional development
- The child seems anxious or embarrassed about speaking
- The symptoms last for more than 3 - 6 months
Prevention
There is no known way to prevent stuttering.
Alternative Names
Children and stuttering; Speech disfluency; Stammering
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