Fall Allergies: What You Need to Know About Mold and Mildew

It’s time to take your soft sweaters out of storage: temperatures are dropping, and precipitation is falling more frequently. Fall is here. Unfortunately, mold and mildew also like those cooler temperatures and damp conditions, which can be a huge problem for people with mold allergies. This could be your answer if you’re still experiencing allergy…
What’s the Difference Between Allergies and the Common Cold?

Sneezing and a runny nose in October can mean either a cold or allergies, and sometimes it’s hard to tell which is which. We’ve put together a guide on key similarities and differences between the two if you’re feeling under the weather and need help determining what ails you. What’s Happening in Your Body Allergic…
Can Going to Sporting Events Cause Hearing Loss?

Stadiums get loud: the crowd, the announcer blaring over the speaker and the loud music. This makes for the fun, energetic atmosphere we love about watching sports. If you’re planning on going to a game or you regularly attend your local team’s games, you may be wondering about the noise levels in the stadium. Is…
How Hearing Loss Can Increase Fall Risk, And How Audiologists Can Help

As we grow older, falls become one of the most serious health risks, often resulting in injury and loss of independence. Interestingly, research shows that people with hearing loss are more likely to experience falls than their peers with normal hearing, and audiologists are in a unique position to get involved. How Is Hearing Loss…
What To Know About Somatic Tinnitus

You may be familiar with tinnitus, a widespread condition characterized by ringing or other constant noise in the ear, but this is a very broad category. The noise, intensity and frequency vary, creating a few different subtypes of tinnitus. One of the most common subtypes of tinnitus is somatic tinnitus. It’s estimated that as much…
Can I Use My Hearing Aids at the Beach?

Summer isn’t over yet! Spending a day at the beach is a popular way to relax, get some sun and enjoy the summer weather while it lasts. However, if you wear hearing aids, you probably know to avoid letting water or sand come in contact with your hearing aids. You may wonder if it’s possible…
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…