The Baffling Booger
Deposited into a tissue and then thrown away, boogers are typically never given a second thought. But do you know what they are? What they’re made of? What your Boone physician can tell about you from them? What are Boogers? So let’s start from the beginning. A booger is a mixture of water, mucus and…
Causes of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is common. In fact, it is the third most common physical condition in the United States behind only arthritis and heart disease. Turns out, there are a wide variety of causes for this popular condition. Age-Related Hearing Loss Presbycusis, or age-related hearing loss, is one of the most common causes. It occurs as…
Halloween and Food Allergies
Now that it is finally October, Halloween is almost here. Time to break out the skeletons, pumpkins and allergen-free treats. Unfortunately, not all families in Linville, NC are on the same page about the third item on the list – allergen-free treats. Halloween is a holiday designed to be scary. But for those children with…
Balancing Act (Part 2)
As we discussed in the last blog post, our balance system is made up of our inner ear and what we see and feel. This week, we will discuss what happens if something goes wrong. Causes of Balance Disorders Countless things can cause a balance disorder: medications, head injury or a change in the inner…
Balancing Act (Part 1)
Have you ever been walking and suddenly lost your balance and stumbled? That’s probably one of the few times when you actually think about your ability to balance. While it may seem simple, all you have to do is stand up and then stay standing, it turns out that balancing is quite complex. There is…
Audiologist vs. ENT
Audiologists and ENT physicians work hand-in-hand at Boone Ridge ENT to provide patients with the best possible care. But what sets these two specialties apart? Audiologists An audiologist is a health care professional who specializes in evaluating, treating and managing hearing loss, tinnitus and balance problems. They are required to complete rigorous training, earning a master’s or doctoral…
Children and Hearing Loss
Can Children Suffer from Hearing Loss? Hearing loss has long been only associated with the adult population. Turns out, hearing loss can actually affect people of all ages. Children are much more affected by hearing loss as any delay in treatment can lead to problems with their learning and development. Causes of Hearing Loss in…
Food and Your Ears
Food and Your Ears: Two Peas in a Pod The food you put into your body becomes fuel, enabling you to jump higher and run faster. It also plays an important role in keeping your ears healthy. Research has shown that vitamin D and omega 3 fatty acids can reduce age-related hearing loss. Most fish,…
A Good Thyroid Diet
Your thyroid is a gland in your neck that sits in front of the trachea and below the larynx. It is responsible for controlling metabolism by producing thyroid hormone (TH) that controls your body’s energy production and consumption. Genetics, stress, environmental toxins, an autoimmune condition and the food you eat all play a role in…
Sleep Disorders ZZZZZ
Together with eating a healthy diet and drinking the recommended amount of water, getting enough sleep can help you maintain your healthy lifestyle. Often overlooked, sleep helps keep your hormone levels, mood, weight and work or school performance on the right path. It also prevents physical, mental, social and emotional problems from developing. But, for…