Meeting an Ear Doctor in Mumbai: A Journalist’s First-Hand Account
- Pooja Vishwakarma
- 10 hours ago
- 4 min read
As a medical journalist, I often find that understanding healthcare truly begins with listening—to patients, to clinicians, and to the quiet rhythms of a working hospital. During a recent visit to Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital and Medical Research Institute, I had the opportunity to interview Dr. Shama S Kovale, an experienced Ear Doctor in Mumbai, and observe how ear-related disorders are assessed and managed in a tertiary care setting. The visit offered a grounded look at ENT practice that goes far beyond symptom-based treatment.
The Hospital Environment: A Structured ENT Ecosystem
Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, located in Andheri West, is designed as a comprehensive, multi-specialty institution. The ENT department functions within this larger ecosystem, supported by advanced diagnostic services, audiology labs, imaging facilities, and operating theatres.
During my visit, the outpatient ENT area appeared well-organized, with clearly defined patient flow—from registration and audiological testing to specialist consultation. Such an environment is particularly important for ear-related complaints, which often require coordinated evaluation rather than isolated examination. The setup allows Dr. Kovale to transition seamlessly from diagnosis to treatment planning, whether the concern is hearing loss, ear infections, or balance disorders.
Dr. Shama S Kovale: Qualifications and Clinical Experience
Dr. Shama S Kovale is a qualified ENT surgeon with postgraduate training in Otorhinolaryngology. Her academic foundation covers disorders of the ear, nose, throat, and related head and neck structures, equipping her to manage both routine and complex ENT conditions.
With years of clinical experience, Dr. Kovale has treated a broad spectrum of ear disorders, including chronic ear infections, hearing loss, tinnitus, vertigo, and eardrum perforations. Her practice reflects the depth expected of an ENT Specialist in Mumbai, where urban lifestyles, noise exposure, and recurrent infections contribute to a high volume of ear-related complaints.
In our conversation, she emphasized that ear problems are often underestimated. “Patients frequently delay consultation,” she noted, “until hearing loss or discomfort begins to interfere with daily life.”
Scope of Ear Care: Beyond Ear Pain
As an Ear Doctor in Mumbai, Dr. Kovale’s work extends well beyond treating earaches. During consultations I observed, patients presented with varied concerns—recurrent discharge, gradual hearing decline, dizziness, and post-infection complications.
The diagnostic process typically includes otoscopic examination, hearing tests, and, when necessary, imaging studies. This structured approach ensures that underlying causes—such as middle ear disease or nerve-related hearing loss—are identified early. Treatment plans may range from medication and monitoring to surgical intervention, depending on severity and chronicity.
Benefits of Timely Ear Treatment
From a clinical standpoint, early and appropriate ear treatment offers several benefits:
Preservation of Hearing: Prompt management can prevent progressive hearing loss.
Reduced Infection Recurrence: Identifying chronic infection sources lowers repeat episodes.
Improved Balance and Comfort: Treating inner ear disorders can alleviate vertigo and instability.
Enhanced Quality of Life: Clear hearing supports communication, work performance, and social interaction.
Dr. Kovale emphasized that many ear conditions are manageable when addressed early, reducing the need for invasive procedures later.
Risks and Limitations: A Balanced Discussion
Ear treatments, whether medical or surgical, also carry certain risks and limitations. During our interview, Dr. Kovale outlined these candidly:
Medication Side Effects: Some ear medications may cause irritation or sensitivity.
Surgical Risks: Procedures involving the middle or inner ear carry small risks of hearing change or infection.
Delayed Recovery: Chronic ear conditions may require prolonged follow-up.
Irreversible Damage: Long-standing untreated disease can lead to permanent hearing loss.
She stressed that realistic expectations and adherence to follow-up schedules are essential to minimizing these risks.
Approximate Cost Range in Mumbai
The cost of ear treatment in Mumbai varies depending on diagnosis, required investigations, and whether surgery is involved. Outpatient consultations and basic audiological tests generally fall within an accessible range, while advanced procedures or surgeries performed at tertiary hospitals involve higher costs.
Dr. Kovale explained that patients are usually counseled in advance regarding expected expenses, especially when procedures or hospital admission are anticipated. Transparency in cost discussions helps patients plan treatment without unnecessary stress.
Precautions and Aftercare: Doctor’s Advice
One of the most practical aspects of my interaction with Dr. Kovale was her emphasis on aftercare and preventive habits.
General Precautions
Avoid inserting objects or cotton buds into the ear canal
Protect ears from excessive noise exposure
Seek early consultation for persistent ear discharge or pain
Aftercare Following Treatment or Surgery
Use prescribed ear drops exactly as directed
Keep the ear dry during the healing period
Attend follow-up visits to monitor recovery
Report symptoms such as dizziness, worsening pain, or hearing changes promptly
She highlighted that many complications arise not from treatment itself, but from neglecting aftercare instructions.
Observations from the Consultation Room
What stood out during my visit was Dr. Kovale’s emphasis on patient education. Each consultation included explanations of anatomy, disease progression, and treatment rationale. This approach helps patients understand that ear health is closely linked to overall well-being, rather than being an isolated concern.
Such comprehensive communication reflects the standards associated with the Best ENT Specialist in Mumbai, where clinical expertise is paired with clarity and patience.
Closing Reflections from a Medical Journalist
My time at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital underscored how specialized ear care functions best within a structured, multidisciplinary environment. Dr. Shama S Kovale practice demonstrates that attentive listening—both literal and clinical—is central to effective ENT care.
For individuals experiencing ear-related symptoms, timely consultation and informed care remain the most reliable path toward lasting relief.
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