Author: Peoria Ear, Nose & Throat Group

Peoria Ear Nose and Throat specializes in providing top-notch care for various conditions affecting the ear and related structures. Among the multiple issues we treat, eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) is a common concern.

The eustachian tube is vital in allowing normal function of the ear. When functioning smoothly, it acts as a protective barrier against diseases, aids in ventilating the middle ear, and ensures the proper drainage of secretions. ETD is a condition where the eustachian tube fails to open or close properly, causing discomfort and various complications. However, this condition is treatable.

Our providers use a cutting edge treatment which is particularly useful for patients who have discomfort when flying or diving, have long-standing eardrum perforations or eardrum perforations that have previously failed surgical treatment. It is also effective for patients who have recurrent ear infections.

We understand how essential it is to address ETD successfully. That is why the expert team at Peoria Ear Nose and Throat is here to provide you with the most advanced and personalized care, ensuring that your eustachian tube is working optimally.

What are the symptoms of ETD?

You may be dealing with ETD if you are experiencing fullness or pain in your ears, along with muffled hearing.

• Fullness of the ear
• Pain in the ear
• Muffled hearing

Typical complications from untreated ETD

When the eustachian tubes, responsible for equalizing pressure in the middle of the ear, become blocked or dysfunctional, it can lead to various complications.

• Ear infection
• Middle ear impairment
• Injury to the eardrum
• Puncture of the eardrum
• Abnormal skin growth in the middle ear
• Collapse of the eardrum into the middle ear

What is the Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation System?

The ACCLARENT AERA™ system is a groundbreaking treatment that addresses persistent ETD using a gentle and minimally invasive approach. In a very well tolerated and short in-office procedure, our skilled physicians utilize a small catheter to introduce a balloon through your nose and into the eustachian tube.

Once in position, the balloon is carefully inflated, widening the pathway for mucus and airflow, restoring proper eustachian tube function. The balloon is then deflated and gently removed.  Most patients experience very little pain and a quick recovery.  In most patients, no time off of work is necessary.

Schedule a consultation with our experienced physicians today and discover how the ACCLARENT AERA™ system can transform your life. Reclaim your comfort, regain your freedom, and rediscover the beauty of sound.

As the school year kicks off, it’s the perfect time to make sure your whole family — kids and adults alike — are starting the season healthy and ready to focus. Whether it’s your child struggling with ear infections or you’re dealing with seasonal allergies, Peoria Ear, Nose & Throat is here to help every member of your family.

ENT doctors — also called otolaryngologists — specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the ears, nose, throat, and even parts of the head and neck. In fact, ENT care is one of the oldest medical specialties in the country, dating back to the 1800s!

From the classroom to the office, our team provides expert care for:

• Hearing problems
• Chronic sinus issues
• Ear infections and ear tubes
• Tonsils, throat, and larynx concerns
• Thyroid conditions
• Sleep apnea and severe snoring
• Allergies that can impact focus and attendance
• Swallowing difficulties
• Head, neck, and throat cancers
• Facial injuries or congenital issues

Whether it’s helping your child hear clearly in class or helping you sleep better at night, Peoria ENT has the experience and specialized care you can trust. Our providers treat both children and adults, making us your family’s go-to partner for ENT care during the school year — and beyond.

With over 100 years of combined experience, our team is committed to finding the right solution for your symptoms and improving your quality of life.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call (309) 589-5900.

 

At Peoria ENT, we understand how important your ear, nose, and throat health is to your overall well-being. Whether you’re struggling with allergies, sinus pain, hearing loss, or sleep issues, our expert team is here to help you feel your best.

Our board-certified specialists—also known as ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctors or otolaryngologists—are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions for both children and adults, including:

• Hearing problems and ear infections
• Sinus and allergy issues
• Thyroid conditions
• Voice and swallowing difficulties
• Sleep apnea and severe snoring
• Ear tube placements and surgical treatments
• Head, neck, and throat cancers
• Facial injuries and congenital conditions

We know that every patient is unique, and that’s why we take the time to listen to your concerns, accurately diagnose your symptoms, and create a personalized treatment plan that works for you.

With over 100 years of combined experience, our Peoria ENT team is dedicated to providing the highest level of care. Whether you need a routine check-up or advanced treatment, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Your health matters. Let’s work together to help you breathe easier, hear more clearly, and live more comfortably.

For more information, please visit our website at peoriaent.com or call (309) 589-5900.

Chronic sinusitis occurs when the sinuses remain swollen and inflamed for three months or longer, interfering with normal mucus drainage and causing nasal congestion. Breathing through the nose may become difficult, and the area around the eyes may feel tender or swollen. Common causes include infection, growths in the sinuses (nasal polyps), or inflammation of the sinus lining.

Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive option for treating symptoms of chronic sinusitis. It has been shown to be safe and effective and may be appropriate for patients who do not respond well to medications, have symptoms lasting more than 12 weeks, or experience four or more sinus infections each year.

In many cases, the procedure can be conveniently performed in our office, eliminating the need for a hospital or surgery center visit. Unlike traditional sinus surgery, balloon sinuplasty does not involve cutting or removing bone or tissue, which may allow for a quicker recovery. Most patients who undergo the in-office procedure can return to normal activities and work within a couple of days.

Most patients with chronic sinusitis report meaningful improvement in their symptoms and quality of life for up to two years following the procedure, and many would recommend it to others.

If you have been diagnosed with chronic sinusitis and are not responding well to medications, you may be a candidate for balloon sinuplasty. The experienced ENT specialists at Peoria Ear, Nose & Throat Group can evaluate your symptoms and help determine the most appropriate treatment option for you.

Allergy causes are all around us. They can include airborne allergens (such as mold, pollen, animal dander, or dust mites), foods (particularly peanuts, wheat, soy, fish, shellfish, eggs, or milk), insect stings, medications, or latex or other substances. When you have allergies, your immune system reacts by producing antibodies that identify a particular allergen as harmful, even though it isn’t. When you encounter that allergen, your system’s reaction can inflame your skin, sinuses, airways or digestive system. It’s estimated that over 50 million Americans, or about 1 in 6 individuals, grapple with some form of allergy.

According to the CDC, over 27% of children suffer from at least one allergic condition. Any child can develop allergies, but they are more common in children with a family history. Early identification of childhood allergies will help improve your child’s quality of life, reduce the number of missed school days, and help you avoid having to use sick time or vacation time to care for your child.

Symptoms of allergies range from mild to severe and may include sneezing, itchy eyes, nose, or throat, a runny or congested nose, hives, swelling of the lips, tongue, or face, or a rash. In severe cases, allergies can trigger a life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis. Factors such as a family history of asthma or allergies, personal history of asthma or other allergic conditions, or childhood may increase the likelihood of developing an allergy.

The initial step in managing allergies involves an accurate diagnosis by an allergist or immunologist, typically through skin prick tests or blood tests. This diagnosis helps identify the specific allergen triggers and guides the appropriate treatment plan, which may involve symptom control through antihistamines, steroid creams, inhalers, or auto-injectors. Avoidance of allergens is crucial for allergies caused by food, drugs, venom, latex, or pet dander. For acute reactions, rescue medications like epinephrine may be necessary. Immunotherapy, such as allergy shots, can gradually desensitize the body to specific allergens over time.

Allergies can appear at any time of year, not just during certain seasons. Dr. Julie Klemens is board certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology. She has completed several years of specialized education and is a member of numerous Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology organizations.  Dr. Klemens treats both pediatric and adult patients, so no matter your age, she can find the right treatment for you.

For further details, please visit our website at peoriaent.com or contact us at (309) 589-5900.

As another year comes to a close, we’re taking time to reflect on what matters most — our incredible physicians, dedicated staff, and loyal patients. For more than 50 years, Peoria Ear, Nose & Throat has been proud to serve Central Illinois with expert care in audiology, allergy, and ENT services.

Through our partnership with FYZICAL, we’re also able to offer comprehensive balance, physical therapy, and orthopedic services — ensuring our patients receive complete, coordinated care under one roof.

Our providers combine advanced technology with specialized training to deliver exceptional care for disorders of the head and neck. Whether you’re seeking relief from sinus issues, managing allergies, improving balance, or addressing hearing concerns, our team is here to help you feel your best.

We are happy to have improved life for so many patients in 2025. As we reflect on the year, one of our favorite parts is hearing from our patients. When it comes to our practice, they really say it best:

“Very personable, professional and empathetic.” 
 
“They treat their patients with care!” 
 
“This is great group of doctors and support staff. Everyone has a wonderful attitude and they are all dedicated to serving the patient.” 
 
“Everyone was very pleasant to interact with. They were caring and knowledgeable. 
My hearing has improved and so has my quality of life!” 
 
“I wish all medical facilities were this good.” 
 
“Staff is always friendly and care is always great.” 
 
“The staff at Peoria ENT were amazing. Kind, understanding and very thorough. They took as much time as I needed to explain everything to me.” 
 
“We love every employee we have encountered at this office! They take care of my son and treat us like family.” 
 
“All the staff are friendly and caring. I was given step by step instruction as to the procedure they did. Very skilled and competent staff.” 
 
“I finally have results, after struggling with imbalance issues for 5 months. It feels amazing to be heard.” 
 
“Very high quality staff and care. I choose not to go anywhere else.” 
 
“Easy to set an appointment. Seeing quickly, not a long wait. Staff is very professional, friendly, smiling and communicative. Medical staff was informative and willing to help.” 
 
We’re grateful for the trust our patients place in us and look forward to continuing to serve Central Illinois for many years to come.

For more information, visit peoriaent.com or call (309) 589-5900. 

Tinnitus is a common condition that affects an estimated 30 to 50 million Americans. It is not a disease itself, but rather a symptom—most often described as ringing, buzzing, humming, hissing, or clicking in one or both ears. While tinnitus can be frustrating, it’s important to remember that it often stems from an underlying, non-threatening health factor you may already be aware of.

Common Causes of Tinnitus

Tinnitus can develop for a variety of reasons, including:

• Hearing loss
• Ear obstructions (earwax, congestion, or foreign objects)
• Sinus pressure
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues
• Prescription medications
• Balance problems

If you suddenly experience tinnitus, stay calm—most cases are linked to manageable health conditions.

Treatment Options: Hearing Aids & Sound Therapy

Hearing aids are a valuable tool not just for hearing loss, but also for reducing the impact of tinnitus. Many patients report that their symptoms become less noticeable while wearing them. In addition to improving communication, hearing aids can:

• Reduce listening effort and stress (which can worsen tinnitus)
• Make conversations easier
• Decrease feelings of isolation
• Encourage participation in daily activities you enjoy

Sound therapy—using calming, soothing sounds—is another option that can be integrated into your customized hearing treatment plan. Even patients without significant hearing loss may benefit from hearing aids programmed specifically for sound therapy.

Addressing the Emotional Impact

Tinnitus doesn’t just affect your ears—it can also affect your mental health. In fact, up to 75% of people with severe tinnitus experience anxiety, depression, or other negative emotions. Peoria ENT understands this connection and can help guide you toward support, including:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): One-on-one sessions with a licensed therapist to help manage the stress and emotional impact of tinnitus.
• Oto Pro: A 12- week program that uses CBT techniques to change your perception of tinnitus. It is delivered through 10-minute audio sessions. You’ll feel better after a few weeks and get lasting results in months.

We’re Here to Help

At Peoria Ear, Nose & Throat Group, our expert audiologists work with leading hearing aid manufacturers and with Oto Pro to provide personalized tinnitus treatment plans. If your tinnitus is causing you distress, don’t wait—support and relief are available.