10. Changes in Speech and Language: The Overlooked Detail
Last but certainly not least, changes in speech and language form the tenth symptom of tardive akathisia. While this symptom might be less common than the others, it’s nonetheless a crucial indicator that could provide valuable insight into the severity and progression of the condition.
The relentless restlessness and discomfort can sometimes intrude on an individual’s speech patterns, leading to hastily spoken words or an increase in speech rate. In other instances, the cognitive difficulties associated with the condition might manifest as struggles with finding the right words or formulating coherent sentences.
These changes in speech and language, though subtle, can significantly impact a patient’s communication and social interactions. They can add to the feelings of frustration and social isolation already experienced by many individuals with tardive akathisia. (10)
