Common Causes of a Dry & Crusty Ear Canal
It’s not unusual for an ear canal to become dry and crusty. Knowing the cause of your dry, crusty ear is key for finding relief. Below we review some of the most common causes. Environmental Causes Sometimes the ear becomes dried out due to environmental causes, including: Fluctuations in temperature. Allergies and sensitivities to soaps….
Hannah Piper, AuD
Dr. Hannah Piper is a South Alabama native, new to Boone. She completed her externship near the D.C. area and received her Clinical doctorate in audiology from Wichita State University. She is licensed for audiology services in the state of North Carolina and certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. In her free time, she is…
Are Some People Naturally Short Sleepers?
Do you chronically get less than sleep per night than most people but still feel well-rested the next day, even without a cup of coffee from The Muse Coffee Company? If so, you may have a sleep condition known as short sleeper syndrome (SSS). Below we review the symptoms of SSS, causes of SSS and…
Tips to Fight “Coronasomnia”
Have you experienced poor quality of sleep or been having trouble falling asleep since the start of the pandemic? If so, you’re not alone. According to one survey, 56% of U.S. adults have experienced an increase in sleep disturbances over the past year. Below we review why the cause and tips for getting better sleep….
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Why Do Your Ears Feel Clogged?
Have you ever felt like your ears are clogged, plugged or full? It may seem concerning, but this feeling is rarely due to a serious condition. Below are three common reasons your ears may feel clogged and how to find relief. Impacted Earwax Earwax is a naturally-occurring substance that is produced by ear canals. While…
How Stress Affects Sleep
Waking up after getting a good night’s sleep can set you up for success. There are a number of factors that can contribute to the quality and duration of your sleep. One often-overlooked factor is stress. Sleep Deprivation The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends adults get at least seven hours of sleep per…
How to Slow Down Hearing Loss
The best way to treat hearing loss is with a two-pronged approach: a well-programmed hearing aid can provide you with the amplification you need in order to hear, and taking precautions can help prevent your hearing loss from getting worse. Below is a breakdown of three ways you can help to slow down the progression…
Is Basal Cell Skin Cancer Serious?
Skin cancer is common and usually very treatable. Understanding the causes and outcomes of this condition can help you make better decisions to keep your skin healthy. What Is Basal Cell Cancer? Your skin is made up of three layers: The outer layer is called the epidermis The inner layer is called the dermis The…
Truckers Are at an Increased Risk for Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a type of sleep disorder that can be dangerous, as it causes you to repeatedly stop breathing during sleep. The most common type of sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), is caused by the muscles in the back of the throat relaxing, narrowing your airway as you try to breathe in. When…