Study Shows Light Pollution Can Extend Allergy Season
Researchers are no longer in the dark about the effects of artificial light sources on trees and woody plants. Evidence shows that the bright lights of big cities are altering urban plants’ normal seasonal rhythms, leading to earlier and longer allergy seasons and exacerbating everything from allergies to asthma to other breathing issues. Details of…
Cancer Patients Need a Hearing Test Before and After Treatment
April is Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month. While head and neck cancer is somewhat rare, making up just 4% of all cancers diagnosed in the U.S., one of the treatments for it (chemotherapy) isn’t. But like all treatments, chemotherapy comes with side effects—and hearing loss is one of them. Experiencing hearing loss due to…
How to Combat Dry Eyes From Allergies
Dry, itchy eyes are an unfortunate side effect of allergy season. When you encounter irritants like pollen, dust mites, pet dander or other substances you’re sensitive to, your immune system overreacts and releases histamine. Histamine is a chemical in your body that triggers the allergy inflammation responsible for dry, red or itchy eyes. Let’s take…
Tips To Keep Your Hearing Aids from Falling Out
There are several things to adjust to when you start wearing hearing aids—including making sure they stay in place. While they should usually remain in your ears without an issue, poor fit, moisture and sweat or movement may cause them to fall out. At , we recommend the following tips to help your devices remain…
Your Ears Involuntarily Perk Up Around Interesting Sounds
Bang! You slam the front door shut, and your dog’s ears move toward the unexpected sound. But did you know your ears may be unconsciously doing the same thing, just much more subtly? These involuntary, nearly imperceptible ear muscle movements are controlled by your vestigial auriculomotor system. Experts believe that the vestigial auriculomotor system is…
Ways To Manage Hearing Loss in the Home
Whether you’re hosting a large holiday gathering or a cozy dinner party, you spend a lot of time in your home. It’s important to make sure it is a safe and comfortable space, particularly if you or a loved one has hearing loss. There are a variety of steps you can take toward this goal….
Can Sinus Inflammation Affect the Brain?
A recent study shows that people with chronic sinusitis don’t just have to contend with a stuffy nose and headache; sinusitis can also cause trouble with focus and lead to depression and other symptoms that indicate the brain is affected as well. The study was published in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery in April 2021….
What Musicians Should Know About Tinnitus
It’s part of the job—music industry professionals are often exposed to loud noises. Along with hearing loss, noise exposure can also result in tinnitus, or ringing in the ears. Studies vary, but it’s estimated that somewhere between 30% and 50% of music professionals have this condition. Though there is no cure for tinnitus, there are…
Ways To Manage Pet Allergies at Home
If you’re dealing with a pet allergy, you are not alone. Up to 30% of people in the U.S. are allergic to cats or dogs. Symptoms of pet allergies include a runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, sneezing, shortness of breath, itchy skin, coughing and hives. There are several steps at home you…
Strategies for Listening to Music with Hearing Loss
When living with hearing loss, activities you once cherished, like listening to your favorite music, can become less enjoyable. You may find it hard to distinguish between instruments or struggle to make out lyrics clearly. While hearing aids help many people overcome these challenges and enjoy music again, they aren’t always the complete solution for…
“I came to be under Dr. Donovan's care during a medical emergency at the hospital. The care I received that day and in every interaction after, at Willamette ENT has been prompt, professional and very thorough. I feel very well cared for.”