Hypernasality

This code describes a speech disorder characterized by excessive nasal resonance during the production of oral speech sounds. It results from inadequate velopharyngeal closure, allowing air to escape into the nasal cavity during phonation. This condition often makes speech sound muffled or "nasal."

Use this code when documentation explicitly states "hypernasality" as a primary speech characteristic or finding. It is frequently seen in patients with cleft palate, velopharyngeal insufficiency, or certain neurological conditions affecting speech. Supporting documentation should include a speech-language pathologist's assessment or physician's diagnostic statement.

• Do not confuse with hyponasality (R49.22), which is insufficient nasal resonance.
• Always code the underlying cause of hypernasality if known and documented (e.g., Q37.9 for cleft palate).
• Ensure the medical record clearly distinguishes between hypernasality and other resonance disorders.