Constant throat clearing is one of the most overlooked symptoms in ENT practice. Many people think it’s “just a habit,” but when it continues for weeks or months, it usually means the throat, nose, or vocal cords are irritated.
“It’s almost always a sign of something deeper,” explains Dr. Shama Kovale, Senior ENT & Voice Surgeon and cochlear implant surgeon at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. “If we catch the cause early — whether it’s allergy, reflux, dryness, or a behavioral pattern — treatment becomes simple and effective.”
If throat clearing has become a part of your daily routine, it may be time to assess whether it’s due to habit, environmental factors, or a medical condition. Early evaluation by a throat specialist in Mumbai helps prevent long-term irritation of the vocal cords.
Meet Dr. Shama Kovale — Why Patients Choose Me
“Have you ever wondered why a small throat issue suddenly affects your speaking, confidence, or daily comfort?” says Dr. Shama Kovale. “That’s exactly what drew me to ENT and Voice Surgery. The throat and voice are deeply connected to identity — and when they’re affected, it changes how a person communicates with the world.”
With 23+ years of experience, she brings global-quality expertise to Mumbai. Her advanced training at Hinduja Hospital and an international fellowship at UC Davis, USA helped her specialize in voice, swallowing, airway, and endoscopic ENT surgeries.
“I lead the Voice & Swallowing Centre at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, where we manage everything from simple hoarseness and allergies to reflux-related irritation and complex vocal cord injuries,” she shares. “My approach is always simple: listen carefully, diagnose accurately, treat gently, and protect the voice long-term.”
Her expertise includes vocal cord disorders, nasal and sinus issues, chronic allergy, silent reflux, pediatric ENT, airway reconstruction, cochlear implants, and advanced microlaryngoscopy.
Because of her patient-first approach, she is frequently consulted by those searching for the best voice specialist in mumbai, the best ent doctor in Mumbai for throat issues, or a reliable doctor for throat allergy and reflux in Mumbai.
Why Throat Clearing Often Becomes a Habit
Throat clearing starts with irritation — but can quickly turn into a reflex.
Once the throat feels “not clear,” even after healing, the mind continues signaling the urge to clear. This repetitive action creates more friction on the vocal cords, worsening the irritation and making the cycle harder to break.
The longer the habit continues, the more likely it is to cause vocal fatigue, swelling, or hoarseness.
Allergies — A Major Hidden Cause of Constant Clearing
Allergies are one of the most common triggers for persistent throat clearing. Dust, pollution, perfumes, smoke, pet hair, food sensitivities, or seasonal changes can cause mucus to drip from the nose into the throat.
This sensation — called post-nasal drip — leads to nonstop throat clearing.
Many patients who come to Dr. Shama Kovale discover that untreated allergies were the root cause.
Early, accurate diagnosis provides fast treatment for chronic throat clearing in Mumbai and prevents long-term irritation.
Silent Reflux — When Acid Irritates the Throat Without Heartburn
Silent reflux (LPR) is reflux that reaches the throat instead of causing heartburn.
It creates symptoms such as:
- Throat clearing
- Hoarse voice
- A lump-like sensation
- Morning irritation
- Bitter taste
Because it does not burn, many people do not realize they have reflux until symptoms worsen.
This is a major reason people consult a doctor for throat allergy and reflux in Mumbai.
Throat Clearing Caused by Vocal Cord Irritation
Overuse of the voice, dehydration, talking in AC rooms, or exposure to pollution can irritate the vocal cords.
When they swell or dry out, the throat feels scratchy or “blocked,” leading to repeated clearing.
Teachers, singers, call-centre staff, and public speakers often face this issue and benefit from evaluation by the best voice specialist in Mumbai.
When Throat Clearing Suggests an Underlying Condition
Persistent clearing can be linked to:
- Chronic sinusitis
- Allergic rhinitis
- Acid reflux
- Vocal cord lesions
- Habitual throat clearing
- Infections
- Thyroid problems
If it lasts more than 2–3 weeks, consulting a throat specialist in Mumbai is essential to prevent worsening of symptoms.
Lifestyle Triggers You May Not Notice
Everyday habits often increase throat irritation — even when people don’t connect them to throat clearing.
Common triggers include:
- Cold AC air
- Inadequate water intake
- Spicy foods
- Late-night meals
- Excess caffeine
- Smoking or vaping
- Frequent loud talking
Correcting these habits significantly reduces symptoms and is an important part of treatment for chronic throat clearing in Mumbai.
Patient Reviews
Anita Deshmukh, 42 – Teacher
“I cleared my throat constantly for months. Dr. Shama Kovale diagnosed silent reflux immediately. The right treatment worked wonders.”
Rohan Kapoor, 31 – IT Professional
“I thought throat clearing was just a nervous habit. She identified my allergy trigger and fixed the issue quickly.”
Maria Coutinho, 27 – Singer
“As a singer, throat clearing was affecting my voice. Dr. Kovale’s precise diagnosis and guidance helped protect my vocal cords.”
FAQs
Why do I clear my throat so often?
It could be due to allergy, reflux, dryness, or a behavioral habit.
Is throat clearing harmful?
Yes. Repeated clearing irritates the vocal cords over time.
Can silent reflux cause throat issues without heartburn?
Absolutely. It’s one of the most common hidden causes.
Should I ignore chronic throat clearing?
Never. Persistent symptoms need proper evaluation.
Who is the right doctor for this problem?
A specialised ENT or voice expert like the best voice specialist in Mumbai.
Constant throat clearing is not just an annoying habit — it is your body’s way of signaling irritation. Whether caused by allergies, reflux, dryness, or vocal cord strain, early diagnosis is the key to quick and lasting relief.
With more than two decades of specialised voice, throat, and airway expertise, Dr. Shama Kovale is trusted as a leading throat specialist in Mumbai, offering accurate diagnosis, advanced care, and safe solutions for treatment for chronic throat clearing in Mumbai.
If throat clearing affects your daily life, professional help is just a call away.
Contact Details
Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital & Medical Research Institute
Rao Saheb Achutrao Patwardhan Marg, Four Bungalows,
Andheri West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400053
Give us a Ring: +91-91528 50769
Email: drshamakovaleent@gmail.com
Website: https://voiceofent.com/