Hypernasality

I worked with an adult who presented with hypernasality (sounds coming through the nose that should not).  The only sounds that should be produced with nasality are n, m, and ng.  Two strategies that we used were pinching the nose shut while saying these sounds.  Then, trying to replicate the sound when the nose is not pinched shut.  And, using a mirror horizontally below the nose (above the mouth).  After saying a word with no nasals they could see if the mirror was clouded.  If it was then they were too nasal.  Audio recordings are also very helpful so that they can hear what they really sound like with and without nasality.

There expensive gizmos on the market that measure nasality, these can be good for more complicated cases but I've found that the above works for the more mild cases where they can understand what the goal is. 

This is a short list of sentences that do not have any nasal sounds in them that can be used for practice when trying to eliminate nasality from non-nasal sounds.

I go to the store every day.

The dog is at the park today.

Carrots are good for your body.

Happy birthday to you.

Broccoli is a good choice.

I love babies and toddlers.

Have hope for the future.

Speech will get better with practice.

Bikes are good to ride.

How did you get to the party?

 

*A word of caution:  Be sure to do a thorough oral motor examination before initiating therapy for hypernasality.  If the pt has velopharyngeal insufficiency or cleft palate they will not be able to eliminate nasality whatever they try.  These must be corrected surgically.  Refer to an ENT, following surgery they can benefit from therapy to retrain muscles for better closure.