Dr. Kristina Helena Pulkki – Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor | Thunder Bay, ON

Dr. Kristina Helena Pulkki, a respected Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor (ENT Doctor), is committed to providing compassionate and patient-centered care for individuals with ear, nose, and throat concerns. Practicing at a clinic in Thunder Bay, ON, she serves the local community with dedication, adhering to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Her focus is on providing comprehensive care in general Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, addressing a wide range of conditions affecting both adults and children in the region.

Dr. Pulkki graduated with a Medical Degree from the Northern Ontario School of Medicine in 2015. She has been practicing as a specialist in Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor for over 4 years, since 2020. She is certified as a RCPSC Specialist, reflecting her expertise and commitment to maintaining high standards of medical practice.

Her clinical philosophy centers on patient education, evidence-based care, and a collaborative approach to treatment. She is dedicated to providing high-quality ENT care in Thunder Bay, emphasizing personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs. Dr. Pulkki is fluent in English and Finnish, enabling her to serve diverse patient populations effectively.

Dr. Kristina Pulkki manages a variety of conditions related to the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Some common areas of treatment include:

Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Aspects

• Drooping Eyelids Obstructing Vision (Functional Blepharoplasty): Excess skin or fat in the upper eyelids that hangs down and interferes with the field of vision, potentially treatable with surgery.

Common Throat, Voice, and Swallowing Conditions

• Dysphagia (Swallowing Difficulties): Difficulty or pain when swallowing foods or liquids, which can stem from various problems in the mouth, throat, or esophagus.
• Laryngitis (Acute & Chronic): Inflammation of the larynx (voice box), leading to hoarseness or loss of voice, which can be short-term or long-lasting.
• Spasmodic Dysphonia: A neurological voice disorder causing involuntary spasms of the vocal cord muscles, resulting in a strained, tight, or breathy voice.
• Snoring & Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Conditions characterized by loud snoring and repeated pauses in breathing during sleep due to airway obstruction.

This list is not exhaustive and provides examples of common conditions. If you have specific concerns regarding your ear, nose, throat, or head/neck health, please consult with Dr. Kristina Pulkki or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.

• Flexible & Rigid Laryngoscopy / Stroboscopy: Examination of the larynx (voice box) and vocal cords using specialized endoscopic techniques to assess voice, airway, and swallowing disorders. Stroboscopy provides slow-motion view of vocal cord vibration.
• Diagnostic Audiometry & Tympanometry: Complete hearing tests to assess hearing levels, middle ear function, and identify types of hearing loss in adults and children.
• Comprehensive ENT Consultation & Examination: Thorough evaluation of ear, nose, throat, head, and neck conditions, including detailed history taking, physical examination, and formulation of a treatment plan.
• Flexible & Rigid Nasal Endoscopy / Sinuscopy: Diagnostic procedure using a thin, flexible or rigid camera with light to examine the nasal passages, sinuses, and nasopharynx.
• Allergy Testing (Skin Prick or Blood Tests - Referral or In-house): Identification of specific allergens (pollens, dust mites, molds, foods) contributing to ENT symptoms, guiding targeted treatment strategies.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common otolaryngology services. Dr. Pulkki offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic and treatment options for conditions of the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Specific services may vary based on individual patient needs and Dr. Pulkki's areas of focus.

All medical and surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). A referral may be required.

Dr. Pulkki practices primarily at a medical facility located in the Port Arthur Central (Downtown North Core, Waterfront area) neighborhood of Thunder Bay, ON. The practice is conveniently situated near Marina Park and the Thunder Bay Historical Museum, making it accessible for residents of the city and surrounding areas. Patients can reach the clinic via Thunder Bay Transit, which provides public transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

Are services from Dr. Pulkki, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests, and surgical procedures performed by a licensed Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Pulkki are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when you have a valid referral from your family doctor or another referring physician. Some elective or cosmetic procedures may not be covered. It's always recommended to confirm specific coverage details with Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) or the clinic if you have questions.

Do I need a referral from my doctor to see Dr. Pulkki, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon?

Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Pulkki. This ensures coordinated care. Some clinics may offer non-insured consultations without a referral, but this is not standard for provincially covered services. Please check with the clinic or your referring doctor.

Why are ear tubes recommended for some children with recurrent ear infections?

Ear tubes (tympanostomy tubes) are often recommended for children who experience frequent middle ear infections (recurrent acute otitis media) or persistent fluid in the middle ear (otitis media with effusion) that doesn't clear on its own. These tiny tubes are inserted into the eardrum to help ventilate the middle ear space, prevent fluid buildup, reduce the frequency of infections, and can improve hearing if it was affected by the fluid. Dr. Pulkki can assess if ear tubes are appropriate for your child.

What kind of post-operative care instructions can I expect after an ENT surgery?

Post-operative care instructions will be specific to the type of surgery performed. Generally, they may include information on pain management, diet restrictions (e.g., soft foods after tonsillectomy), activity limitations, wound care (if applicable), use of medications (like antibiotics or pain relievers), nasal saline rinses (after sinus surgery), and signs of potential complications to watch for. You will also be given follow-up appointment details. It's crucial to follow these instructions carefully for optimal healing.

How are allergies related to ENT problems?

Allergies can significantly impact the ears, nose, and throat. Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) can cause nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, post-nasal drip, and itchy, watery eyes. Allergies can also contribute to chronic sinusitis, eustachian tube dysfunction (leading to ear pressure, popping, or fluid), recurrent ear infections, and exacerbate conditions like asthma or voice changes. An ENT specialist may investigate and help manage the ENT-related symptoms of allergies, often by recommending nasal sprays, antihistamines, or discussing options like immunotherapy, sometimes working in conjunction with an allergist.

984 Oliver Rd
Thunder Bay, ON P7B 7C7

Phone: (807) 698-7398 | Fax: (807) 698-7399

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Pulkki is a licensed physician and surgeon, regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to schedule an appointment for provincially insured services.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Pulkki-Kristina-Helena/0302708-106564