Why Do I Suddenly Start To Speak With A Different Accent?

Do you have trouble pronouncing clusters of sound (e.g., like S-T-R in words like “strike”)?

Do you have trouble with sounds in which you need to “tap” your tongue behind your top front teeth, such as “t” or “d”?

Do you pronounce vowels differently (e.g., saying “yah” where you used to say “yeah”)?

Is your pitch or tone on certain sounds different than before?

Do you add, remove, or substitute sounds?

Can you confirm that no underlying mental health condition is causing these changes?

Do you still speak your native language, but does your accent sound like that of someone who learned it later in life?

Are your errors consistent across your entire phonetic system (giving the impression of a new “accent”)?

Based on your answers, it’s unlikely that you have a serious problem with your speech. Some people, however, suddenly start speaking with a different accent. These people may be suffering from foreign accent syndrome (FAS). The condition may start to show after a head injury, a stroke, or other type of damage to the brain. The condition is rare, but it does exist. If you think someone close to you is suffering from this condition or if you would like to know more about it, you can visit your doctor for the right advises.

Based on your answers, you may be displaying one or two signs of problems with your normal speech. The symptoms are associated to a condition called ‘foreign accent syndrome’ (FAS). Any time you notice changes to your normal speech, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. It could also be symptoms of a more serious condition, therefore it’s very important to get evaluated by a doctor. Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and medical history. Besides, he may examine your facial muscles when you talk. Also, he will do some brain scans, and if needed he may refer you to a specialist.

Unfortunately, you are displaying various symptoms typically seen among individuals who have foreign accent syndrome. It’s essential to talk to your doctor as soon as you can. Treatment for the condition depends on the underlying cause. If there is no underlying condition, treatment may consist of speech therapy and counselling. If there is an underlying condition, treatment may be different. For example, in case of a brain injury, antiseizure medications may be prescribed or sometimes a surgery is required.