How Contagious Are Sinus Infections?
The short answer is not at all. But that does not mean the initial cause of the infection is harmless. More than 31 million Americans experience a sinus infection each year. A large percentage develop the infection after catching a virus from someone else. Why Do Sinus Infections Occur? Your sinuses are hollow chambers inside…
How to Protect Your Skin this Summer
Spending time outside is what summer is all about. But too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can be harmful; they can lead to sunburns, eye damage, wrinkles and even skin cancer. You can still enjoy your time outdoors this summer by following the tips outlined below. Safely Enjoying the Outdoors Below…
Preventing Swimmer’s Ear
There’s nothing more refreshing in the summer than taking a trip to the lake or a dip in the pool. But with such fun comes risk in the form of swimmer’s ear. Swimmer’s ear is an infection caused by water becoming trapped in the ear canal and breeding bacteria. Learn the signs of swimmer’s ear,…
Understanding Hyperacusis
Those with normal hearing may scoff at the bothersome sounds we live with day to day. But for those with an unusual sensitivity to sound, known as hyperacusis, these sounds can affect their quality of life. What Sounds Can Cause Harm? Experts estimate that about one in every 50,000 adults experiences this type of hearing…
When Will My Sinus Infection Go Away?
In the digital age, we are accustomed to getting what we want quickly. But some things, like sinus infections, take their time. Understanding the causes of these infections can help you be more realistic in your treatment plan. Causes of Your Sinus Infection Nearly 31 million Americans get a sinus infection each year, according to…
Stress & Tinnitus
Tinnitus is the sensation of hearing a ringing or buzzing that is not there. While common – more than 15 percent of the general population experiences a ringing in the ear – the type and extent vary from person to person. One reason for the difference may be each individual’s level of stress. Those with…
What Happens When You Don’t Get Enough Sleep
Stress, a busy lifestyle and a hectic job are just a few of the issues that can cause you to miss out on a good night’s rest. Skimping on sleep can have negative consequences on your physical and mental health. Why Sleep is Important The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends adults between…
5 Tips for Getting Used to Your Hearing Aids
Unlike glasses that correct your eyesight as soon as you place them on your face, hearing aids take some getting used to, as your brain needs time to process the new sounds and stimuli. Your Carolina Ear, Nose & Throat audiologist put together the list of tips below to help you get used to your…
Tips for Dining out if Your Date Has Hearing Loss
When someone you love has hearing loss, dining out can be stressful. Restaurants are one of the most difficult listening environments, even for people who aren’t hearing-impaired, thanks to live music, surrounding conversation and clamoring dishes. Fortunately, there are strategies that can help you prepare for your night out: Find an environment for easier hearing…
The ABCs of ENTs
You’ve probably heard of an ENT but might not have a very good understanding of what, exactly, an ear, nose and throat doctor does. ENT specialists, also known as otolaryngologists, treat patients of all ages in Hickory, Lincolnton and Morganton who are suffering from a wide range of conditions affecting the ears, nose, throat, head…