Saliva is a serous fluid composed of a mixture of water and mucus, secreted by the salivary glands in the mouth. Excessive salivation is not a disease in itself, but rather a side effect of certain illnesses or medications.
It can cause many problems while eating or speaking, and may result from factors such as consuming acidic foods or during teething. Treatment depends on addressing the underlying cause, which a doctor will identify and prescribe.
What is excessive salivation
Excessive salivation is a condition characterized by increased saliva production, leading to difficulty swallowing. This condition can cause problems while speaking and eating, impacting a person's self-esteem and confidence.
Symptoms of excessive salivation
Some symptoms that accompany excessive salivation include:
- Drooling.
- Frequent swallowing.
- Bad breath.
- Difficulty speaking.
- Skin irritation around the mouth.
- Difficulty eating.
- Spitting.
- Cracked lips.
What are the causes of excessive salivation
Excessive salivation has many causes, some temporary and some chronic. Temporary causes include:
- Oral and dental problems or poor oral hygiene.
- Sore throat, tonsils, or sinusitis.
- Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, especially nausea.
- Taking certain medications, such as antidepressants and painkillers.
- Eating acidic or sugary foods.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Current and chronic causes include:
- Parkinson's disease.
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
- Cerebral palsy.
- Enlarged tongue.
- Stroke.
Treatment for Excessive Salivation
Treatment for excessive salivation depends on the underlying cause. It often includes behavioral therapy, where doctors recommend changing sleeping position to sleeping on your back, maintaining good oral hygiene, and practicing facial muscle strengthening exercises.
It's also important to reduce the intake of spicy foods and sugars, as these increase saliva production. Reducing reliance on mouth breathing is also beneficial. Chewing sugar-free gum can help reduce saliva buildup. In severe cases, surgery or radiation therapy may be considered.
In some cases, if excessive salivation is persistent, Botox injections may be prescribed. These injections are administered directly into the salivary glands, paralyzing the nerves and muscles and thus preventing saliva production. The effects of these injections typically last for about two months.
Ways to Prevent Excessive Salivation
To prevent and reduce excessive salivation, it is recommended to modify certain behaviors by following these tips:
- Breathe through your nose and reduce mouth breathing, especially while sleeping.
- Sleep on your back and adjust your sleeping position.
- Use an artificial saliva spray, such as a mouthwash containing herbal oils, to moisturize your mouth.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Avoid consuming sugars, caffeine, and spicy foods, which increase saliva production.
- Maintain good oral hygiene.
- Chew sugar-free gum to reduce saliva production.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.
Treating Excessive Salivation During Pregnancy
Increased salivation during pregnancy is normal due to hormonal changes. To manage this, it is important to adopt healthy habits such as eating small, frequent meals, drinking plenty of water, and cleaning your mouth regularly to prevent excessive salivation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the causes of excessive drooling during sleep
Excessive salivation during sleep is often caused by mouth breathing, relaxation of the mouth muscles, or sleeping on one's side. It can also be a side effect of certain medications.
Do stomach problems cause excessive salivation
Yes, excessive salivation can be caused by stomach problems such as acid reflux. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can also cause the patient to lose control of their saliva due to the inability to regulate stomach fluids.
Does stress cause increased salivation
Yes, stress can increase salivation, which can be bothersome.
Article Summary
Excessive salivation is a bothersome condition characterized by overproduction of saliva and difficulty swallowing. It can be temporary or chronic, and treatment depends on addressing the underlying cause.
While not a disease itself, it can be a side effect of certain medications or illnesses. It can cause difficulties with speech and eating, impacting self-confidence.