Balloon Sinuplasty: What is it and Who Can Benefit?
Balloon sinuplasty is a type of nasal surgery that uses small balloon catheters to dilate and drain the sinuses. It is typically performed on patients suffering from sinusitis or sinus inflammation and blockage in the nose. The procedure is minimally invasive and an effective method of enlarging your sinus passages for easier breathing and a…
What to Expect in an Overnight Sleep Study
A sleep study, or polysomnography, is a test that helps diagnose various sleep disorders by monitoring you while you sleep. It records your heartrate, breathing and brain waves. It also monitors your blood oxygen levels and tracks limb and eye movements. Most studies are done in a sleep center or hospital. Sometimes an at-home sleep…
What Is Adenoid Removal?
Swollen or infected adenoids can lead to breathing difficulties and sleeping issues in children. If these problems persist, your child’s doctor may recommend removing their adenoids in a procedure called an adenoidectomy. Continue reading to learn more about what your adenoids are why they may require removal. Understanding Adenoids The glands at the roof of…
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…