Drooling during sleep is usually harmless, but frequent or excessive drooling could indicate an underlying health issue. Here are six possible causes:
1. Sleep Apnea
A condition where breathing repeatedly stops during sleep, causing mouth breathing and drooling. Symptoms include loud snoring, gasping for air, and morning dry mouth. If suspected, consult a doctor for treatments like CPAP therapy or surgery.
2. Acid Reflux (GERD)
Stomach acid flowing into the esophagus can increase saliva production. Symptoms include heartburn, sour taste, and difficulty swallowing. Managing GERD involves dietary changes, medications, or surgery in severe cases.
3. Neurological Disorders
Conditions like Parkinson’s disease and ALS weaken swallowing muscles, leading to drooling. “If drooling is accompanied by other neurological symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.”
4. Other Causes
- Allergies & Sinus Infections: Congestion forces mouth breathing, increasing drooling.
- Tonsillitis: Swollen tonsils obstruct swallowing.
- Medications: Some drugs, like antidepressants, affect saliva control.
If drooling is persistent and accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical advice to address the root cause and improve sleep quality.
