Some children possess voices that are either "too nasal" (hypernasal), "not nasal enough" (hyponasal), or sometimes a mix of unbalanced resonance. The Voice, Resonance, and Swallowing Center is able to evaluate and treat both. Sophisticated testing that includes endoscopy, imaging, Televex, and nasometry are just a few of the ways your child can be diagnosed.
Conditions and Treatments
- Submucous cleft palate
- Nasopharyngeal obstruction from conditions such as an enlarged adenoid
- Nasopharyngeal conditions such as infection or allergy
We use sophisticated testing to come to a comprehensive diagnosis, including:
- Perceptual assessment by obtaining speech samples of your child's articulation placement and manner in sound production for phonological development through conversation or in play. This assessment helps to determine abnormal structures' (enlarged tonsils, adenoids, or submucous cleft palate) effects on the resonating cavities for speech production.
- Nasopharyngeal obstruction (enlarged tonsils, adenoid) or infection can impact the resonating cavities in sound production that sounds “not nasal enough” (hyponasal)
- Submucous cleft palate can result in velopharyngeal dysfunction resulting in a reduced volume of voice and lack of intra-oral air pressure for specific speech sounds to sound “too nasal” (hypernasal).
- Speech intelligibility assessment and its impact on your child’s communication
- Objective acoustic and aerodynamic parameters on sound production in the resonating cavities, such as nasometry
- Complete medical examination of the head and neck
These parameters are then supported by direct visual assessments that may be done in the outpatient clinic, such as nasometry or nasoendoscopy for velopharyngeal function; or further referral to Pediatric Radiology for tests such as x-ray, CT, or MRI, and Televex (videoflouroscopic imaging of the velopharyngeal mechanism during speech production).
Results obtained will determine a differential diagnosis with an appropriate habilitation plan in both medical treatments and Results obtained will determine a differential diagnosis with an appropriate habilitation plan in both medical treatments and speech therapy.
