Back in January, we introduced you to what we called "the Unicorn" of hearing aids the Oticon Zeal. Now that our patients have had a few months to experience it firsthand, we are thrilled to share that the results have been everything we hoped for and more!

As always, our office prefers to wait and observe real-world outcomes before making a full recommendation, and we can now say with confidence: patients who have transitioned to the Oticon Zeal are doing exceptionally well. Our audiologists have been genuinely impressed by the feedback.

If you have been curious about whether the Oticon Zeal might be right for you, now is a great time to come in and try it for yourself. Spring is the perfect season for a fresh start — including your hearing!

What patients are saying about Oticon Zeal:

Question: My allergies have been terrible this spring. Could they actually be affecting my hearing?

Great question, and one we hear more often than you might think this time of year! The short answer is yes, seasonal allergies can absolutely impact your hearing, and in a few different ways.

When the body reacts to allergens like pollen, it produces excess mucus and causes inflammation throughout the upper respiratory system. This includes the Eustachian tube, which is the small passage that connects the back of your throat to your middle ear. When the Eustachian tube becomes swollen or blocked, it can create a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear, muffled hearing, and even temporary shifts in your hearing levels.

Allergies can also contribute to fluid buildup behind the eardrum, a condition called otitis media with effusion, which can further reduce the ability to hear clearly. For hearing aid users, this can make it feel like your devices suddenly aren't working as well when in reality, the change is happening in the ear itself.

What can you do?

• Stay on top of your allergy management with your physician, as treating the underlying inflammation often resolves the hearing-related symptoms.
• If you notice a sudden or persistent change in your hearing during allergy season, don't wait it out come in for a hearing check.
• Keep your hearing aids clean and dry, as increased moisture from outdoor activity can affect performance.

If you are experiencing changes in your hearing this spring, we are always here to help sort out what's going on. Give us a call and we will get you in!

Our Libertyville Location — A Fresh Start in a Brand-New Space

This spring, we are doing something a little different for our staff highlight, because the biggest news out of our Libertyville office isn't just about one person. It's about the entire team and the beautiful new home they are now serving you from!

As many of you may have heard, our Libertyville office has officially moved into a brand-new, larger suite, Suite 101, right in the same building. What started as exciting news in January is now a full reality, and we could not be more proud of what our team has built.



What's new in the Libertyville suite?

• More space; more comfort. Our new location is significantly larger, giving patients and staff room to breathe. No more tight waiting areas, you will notice the difference the moment you walk in.
• New exam rooms. We have expanded our number of patient rooms, which means less waiting and more time with your provider. Each room has been thoughtfully designed with acoustics and patient comfort in mind.
• Improved patient flow. From check-in to check-out, the new layout was designed with you in mind. Our front desk, waiting area, and clinical spaces are arranged to make your visit feel smooth and unhurried.
• A brighter, more welcoming environment. Everything is fresh, modern, and warm a space that reflects the level of care we strive to provide every single day.

We outgrew our previous space because of you our incredible patients and that is something we do not take lightly. This new suite is our commitment to continue growing in ways that serve you better. Thank you for being the reason we keep reaching for more.

Come see us! We would love to show you around.

755 S. Milwaukee Avenue, Suite 101 | Libertyville, IL 60048

Save the Date



We cannot believe it is already time to start planning our 6th Annual Patient Appreciation Picnic and we are so excited to celebrate with you!

Friday, June 26th Old School Forest Preserve



Bring your family and friends! We will be serving food and drinks and will have fun activities for the whole family to enjoy. This is always one of our favorite days of the year, and it keeps getting better. We hope to see you there the more the merrier!

Watch your email for more details as we get closer to the big day. We can't wait to celebrate with you!

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

Ingredients

• 6 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• ½ cup blueberries
• ⅓ cup candied pecans or walnuts
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced

For the dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Whisk together all dressing ingredients in a small bowl until well combined. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity to your preference. Set aside.
2. In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, blueberries, red onion, and nuts.
3. Drizzle with the poppyseed dressing just before serving and toss gently to coat.
4. Top with crumbled feta and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Hearing Associates, Inc  |   info@hearingdoc.com  |  847-662-9300