Health Topics

Find information on health topics
so you can live your best life.

Ear Health

An audiologist specializes in evaluating and treating people of all ages with hearing loss, dizziness and balance disorders. Specialty audiology consultation is available for assessment and treatment of hearing loss, tinnitus, dizziness and balance disorders.

Hometown Health Blog

Does my child need ear tubes?

Some kids are prone to painful ear infections. A common treatment is inserting ear tubes to drain fluid and circulate air. Get answers to common questions about this simple procedure.

Pao Vang, M.D. By Pao Vang April 4, 2023

Is tinnitus making you miserable?

Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can be more than just annoying. It can negatively affect your quality of life. Learn about strategies to help manage your symptoms.

Trista Williams, Au.D. By Trista Williams April 3, 2023

Beyond hearing aids: Cochlear implants replace silence with sound

If you have moderate-to-severe hearing loss, a cochlear implant might be an option for you. Learn if you're a good candidate for an implant and how they differ from hearing aids.

Nathaniel (Nathan) Connell, M.D. By Nathaniel (Nathan) Connell February 23, 2023

Protect children's hearing from noisy toys, gifts

Many toys that children play with can produce levels equal to 90 decibels, which typically requires hearing protection. Get tips to help you choose toys and games that protect kids' hearing.

Katie Dease, Au.D. By Katie Dease December 12, 2022

Do ear infections always need to be treated with antibiotics?

When your child has an ear infection, it's common to think an antibiotic is necessary. Learn why that may not always be the case and how you can treat it at home.

Timothy Slama DO By Timothy Slama October 19, 2022

Hunting? Be sure to protect your hearing

Noise over 140 decibels can permanently damage hearing, and almost all firearms are in that range or higher, putting hunters at risk for hearing loss. Learn how protective devices can reduce that risk.

Katie Dease, Au.D. By Katie Dease September 30, 2022

Are OTC hearing devices a good fit for you?

Pharmacies and other retailers soon will offer over-the-counter hearing devices for people with moderate hearing loss. Here's what you should know before you buy.

Katie Dease, Au.D. By Katie Dease September 12, 2022

6 common questions about earaches and ear infections

Ears are amazing organs. They help us hear and experience the world. Yet some people are prone to painful ear infections. Get answers to questions about this common condition.

Luke Andera MD By Luke Andera July 18, 2022

The scoop on earwax

Ear wax has many important jobs, including protecting and lubricating your ears. Discover the simple, safe way to keep your ears clean and why you shouldn't put a small object into your ear canal.

Fareeda Hussain MD By Fareeda Hussain June 13, 2022

Are you hearing crickets?

Does it sometimes sound like a warm summer night in your head? If you're hearing crickets and other noises, you may have tinnitus. Learn more about this condition.

Katie Dease, Au.D. By Katie Dease March 15, 2022

8 reasons to visit an ENT specialist

You know that ear, nose and throat (ENT) providers care for ear infections. But they treat a much wider range of conditions. Read about the 8 common conditions treated by ENT, ranging from tonsillitis to dizziness.

Luke Andera MD By Luke Andera July 30, 2021

Is it time to get your hearing checked?

Do people comment on the volume of your earbuds or TV? Does it seem like voices are too soft and everyone's mumbling? If so, it may be time to get your hearing checked.

Katie Dease, Au.D. By Katie Dease June 25, 2021