Dysgraphia Symptoms

Dysgraphia is a learning disability that affects your ability to write. It is common for dysgraphia to be diagnosed during childhood when its symptoms are first noticeable.

Causes

• Sometimes, dysgraphia stems from the brain's inability to sequence properly or as a result of Attention Deficit Disorder. In adults, severe trauma or stroke are common causes for dysgraphia.

Types of Symptoms in Handwriting

• Dysgraphia causes poor, illegible handwriting accompanied by poor spelling, lack of punctuation and unfinished or omitted words. Often, it is possible for you to communicate verbally, but be unable to do so in writing.

Other Types of Symptoms

• Dysgraphia sometimes causes unusual grips upon writing implements, such as holding a pencil close to the point or clutching it inside your fist. It is also common to talk to yourself or watch your hand while you write.

Diagnosis

• A school or clinical psychologist typically relies upon observation and interviewing the patient to diagnose dysgraphia.

Treatment

• If possible, using a computer eliminates the frustration of trying to communicate through writing by hand. Occupational or cognitive therapy may help you learn to overcome your condition or develop strategies to cope with it.