How To Clean and Maintain Your Hearing Aids
Approximately 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from hearing aids. These advanced devices are an essential bridge to better communication, sharper awareness and fuller connection with those around you. But like any tech you use daily, they need some upkeep to stay at peak performance. One of the simplest and most effective ways to maintain…
The Link Between Hydration and Hearing
It’s important to stay hydrated for a variety of reasons—including ensuring that you can hear well. Insufficient water intake can lead to disturbances in your auditory system. Our providers at Northern Alabama ENT can help you understand the link between proper hydration and hearing health so you can enjoy optimal wellness. The Effects of Dehydration…
What to Know About Muffled Hearing in One Ear
Muffled hearing, or the sensation of hearing through a wall or underwater, can be unsettling, especially when it affects only one ear. Often, muffled hearing in one ear is temporary and not cause for concern, but it can sometimes point to a more serious issue. It’s helpful to know the potential causes for muffled hearing…
Anita Giles Retires from North Alabama ENT Team
After practicing audiology for more than 30 years, Anita Giles has retired from the North Alabama ENT Associates, P.C. We are grateful for her years of service and dedication to patient care. Anita appreciates the relationships she has been able to develop with patients and their families. She looks forward for having more time for…
How Hearing Aids Improve Safety at Home
Hearing is a key part of staying safe, even within the comfort of your own home. While it’s easy to think about simple tasks like hearing a knock at the door or the phone ringing, hearing aids offer far more in terms of safety benefits. These advanced devices help users stay alert to sounds that…
Navigating the Latest Hearing Aid Technologies
Hearing aids today can be sleek and discreet with advanced technology designed to make life easier and more connected. Nearly 28.8 million Americans could benefit from wearing them. Whether you’re exploring hearing aids for the first time or considering an upgrade, understanding the latest features can help you make a confident and informed decision. Smarter…
The Importance of Regular Hearing Evaluations
Good hearing helps us stay connected to our communities, friends and families but it often doesn’t get the same attention as our dental or eye care. Regular hearing checkups are an essential part of overall health, especially as we get older. About 22% of adults between ages 65 and 74 experience some disabling hearing loss….
How to Select the Right Hearing Aid for Your Needs
Choosing the right hearing aids can feel like a complex decision, especially with the variety of styles and features available today. Nearly 28.8 million Americans could benefit from using hearing aids, but many don’t acquire them. However, with the right guidance, you can find a solution that suits your hearing loss, preferences and lifestyle. Understand…
Dr. Brocato Announces Retirement
After serving Northern Alabama for many years, Dr. Brocato retired on March 31, 2025. He appreciated caring for his patients and developing relationships with families, often seeing children and grandchildren as well. In his retirement, he looks forward to having more time for family, friends, and hobbies and hopes to continue seeing his patients around town….
What Are the Causes of Conductive Hearing Loss?
There are three types of hearing loss: conductive, caused by a physical blockage that prevents soundwaves from traveling through the ear; sensorineural, caused by damage to the sensory cells within the inner ear; and mixed, which is a combination of the two. Let’s focus on conductive hearing loss and the different factors that can cause…