Hypernasality
ICD-10 R49.21 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of hypernasality.
Hypernasality is a speech disorder characterized by an excessive amount of nasal resonance during phonation, which can significantly affect speech intelligibility. This condition arises when there is an abnormality in the velopharyngeal mechanism, leading to inadequate closure of the nasal passages during speech. Common symptoms include a nasal-sounding voice, difficulty in articulating certain consonants, and potential social or psychological impacts due to speech difficulties. Hypernasality can be associated with various conditions, including cleft palate, neurological disorders, and structural abnormalities of the nasal cavity or throat. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical evaluation, including perceptual assessment of speech, nasometry, and possibly imaging studies to assess the anatomy and function of the velopharyngeal area. Treatment may involve speech therapy, surgical intervention, or a combination of both, depending on the underlying cause.
Detailed history of symptoms, physical examination findings, and any relevant imaging or lab results.
Patients presenting with complaints of speech changes following respiratory infections or neurological events.
Consideration of comorbid conditions that may affect speech, such as allergies or sinusitis.
Acute assessment of airway and speech function, including any immediate interventions.
Patients with acute trauma to the face or neck presenting with speech changes.
Rapid evaluation of potential airway compromise and need for urgent intervention.
Used in conjunction with R49.21 for speech therapy sessions.
Document the specific speech therapy techniques used and the patient's progress.
Speech-language pathologists should provide detailed reports on therapy outcomes.
Common causes include structural abnormalities such as cleft palate, neurological conditions affecting speech production, and functional disorders related to the velopharyngeal mechanism.
