The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Stuttering

Speech fluency disorder largely improves with early speech-language therapy.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Stuttering?

Stuttering (or stammering) is a fluency disorder characterized by repetition, prolongation, or blocking of sound, syllable, or word in speech production. It is seen in approximately 5-8% of children during language development; the majority resolve spontaneously in preschool age.

Persistent stuttering (about 1% of cases) develops on a neuroscientific basis; it is not associated with intelligence or psychological disorders. It worsens in situations requiring high-load fluency (classroom presentation, telephone) while it usually improves in singing.

Speech-language pathologist evaluation in the first 12-18 months is important for using the spontaneous recovery chance or making an early treatment decision. Early intervention reduces both stuttering and secondary behaviors (eye blinking, facial tension).

Symptoms

Repetition of sound, syllable, or word ('I-I-I', 'Whe-when')
Prolongation of sound ('Iiiii will go')
Block: silent pause without producing sound
Secondary motor behaviors accompanying speech (eye blinking, facial tension)
Avoidance of speaking and social withdrawal
Worsening in certain situations (talking to strangers, in class)

Risk Factors

Family history of stuttering (strong genetic component)
Male sex (spontaneous recovery is more common in girls)
Rapid language development (brain-language coordination delay)
Shy and anxious temperament
Pressure of learning a second language
Ages 2.5-4 are the most critical onset period

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If stuttering exceeds 6 months or is increasing
  • If the family is very worried about stuttering
  • If secondary motor behaviors are starting
  • When stuttering begins in a girl (may be evaluated later in boys)
  • If social avoidance develops in school age

Treatment Methods

01
In early childhood the Lidcombe Program: parent-guided fluency reinforcement
02
In school age fluency shaping: slow-soft onset techniques
03
Stuttering modification: 'easy stuttering' strategy instead of avoiding stuttering
04
Cognitive-behavioral therapy for social anxiety
05
School support and teacher information
06
Family training: relaxation and acceptance

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Newborn Care

Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları

The newborn period is a critical phase that requires attentive care of the umbilical stump, temperature regulation, feeding, monitoring of jaundice and screening tests.

Vaccination Schedule

Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları

The Turkish Ministry of Health national vaccination schedule arranges the immunization program from birth to adulthood. Timely and complete vaccination is critical in protecting community immunity.

Jaundice in Infants

Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları

Neonatal jaundice (jaundice in newborns) presents as yellowing of the skin and eyes. The vast majority of cases are physiological and are easily treated with phototherapy.

Diarrhoea in Infants

Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları

Acute diarrhoea is defined as 3 or more loose stools per day. In infants it is most often caused by viral gastroenteritis (rotavirus, norovirus); dehydration may lead to serious complications.

Fever Management in Children

Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları

Fever in children (38°C and above) is the body's defense mechanism against viral or bacterial infection. Most fevers resolve spontaneously in 3-5 days; however, some conditions require urgent medical evaluation.

Cough in Children

Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları

Cough is the most common symptom in children and is mostly due to viral upper respiratory infections. Cough lasting more than 3 weeks or with characteristic sounds requires detailed evaluation.

Bronchiolitis

Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları

Supportive care with hydration, nasal suctioning, and oxygen if hypoxic is the mainstay; routine bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and antibiotics are not recommended per AAP/NICE guidelines.

Croup (Laryngotracheobronchitis)

Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları

Croup is a viral inflammation of the larynx and trachea presenting with a barking cough, hoarseness, and inspiratory stridor. It mostly affects children aged 6 months to 3 years.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.