In some cases, aphasia resolves on its own. This is especially common in aphasia that follows a transient ischemic attack, which is a mini-stroke where blood supply is cut off from the brain for a brief period of time before it is restored. In other cases, the aphasia may be long-lasting or permanent.

Aphasia can sometimes be eliminated by treating its underlying cause. This may involve surgery to remove brain tumors or to repair damage caused by a head injury.

Most often, treatment is aimed at rehabilitating patients and recovering their language abilities. Although lost language abilities are not always fully restored, patients may learn to use their remaining language abilities or compensate for lost abilities through new ways of communicating. Speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy and psychological counseling may be recommended. Patients may be asked to engage in certain types of exercises that include reading, writing, following directions and repeating words or sentences.

Group therapy is commonly recommended for people who experience aphasia. This provides patients with an opportunity to socialize and practice communication skills in a safe and supportive environment. Group therapy may also be useful for the family and friends of people experiencing aphasia. It can offer them communication strategies and allow them to discuss their feelings and concerns.

The expected level of improvement depends on many factors, including the cause, extent and location of brain damage and a patient’s motivation level, as well as a patient’s age and general health. In general, a patient’s receptive abilities (to understand communication) may be more completely recovered than a patient’s expressive abilities (to speak). Treatment is more successful if it is started as soon as possible after the onset of aphasia, and is tailored to an individual’s specific needs.

For most people, the recovery process can take up to two years, after which time patients may or may not have recovered complete control of their language skills.