Drooling is the production of excess saliva that can occur due to medications, exposure to toxins, or common health conditions such as infections, cavities, or gastroesophageal reflux. In many cases, drooling improves once the underlying cause is identified and treated.
Drooling may occur along with other symptoms, such as fever, difficulty swallowing, tremors, or a burning sensation in the throat. These additional symptoms can provide clues about the underlying cause and help guide the choice of treatment.
Frequent or heavy drooling, especially when it occurs with other symptoms, should be checked by a healthcare provider. Treatment depends on the cause and may include antibiotics, acid-reducing medications, or adjustments to current medications.
Main causes
The main causes of drooling are:
1. Infections
When the body is fighting an infection, it is common to develop a fever and produce more saliva than usual. This can happen as part of the body’s defense response to help eliminate bacteria.
How to treat: If an infection is suspected, it is important to see a primary care provider for an evaluation and appropriate treatment. Treatment may include medications such as antibiotics, antivirals, or fever reducers. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids and eat a balanced diet.
2. Gastroesophageal reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) is when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus toward the mouth. In addition to drooling, it can cause symptoms such as indigestion and a burning sensation in the stomach and throat.
How to treat: Treatment for reflux may include lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and avoiding meals close to bedtime, as well as medicines that reduce stomach acid.
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, changing eating habits may help improve GERD symptoms, including losing weight when appropriate and avoiding foods that worsen reflux.
3. Medication use
Medications with sedative or anticonvulsant effects can lead to drooling. This symptom can also occur if medications are taken in higher-than-recommended doses or if toxic substances are ingested.
How to treat: It is best to speak with the doctor who prescribed the medication to determine whether the dose should be adjusted or whether the medication should be stopped. However, if poisoning or ingestion of a toxic substance is suspected, go to the emergency room.
4. Pregnancy
During pregnancy, some women may experience drooling. This is common and is often related to nausea and vomiting caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy.
How to treat: Drooling during pregnancy is usually normal. To help relieve nausea and excess saliva, pregnant women may drink ginger and lemon tea. If symptoms are very uncomfortable, it is important to speak with an OB-GYN for the most appropriate treatment.
5. Dental malocclusion
Dental malocclusion happens when the upper and lower teeth do not fit together properly when the mouth is closed. In addition to drooling, it may cause other symptoms, such as tooth wear, difficulty moving the jaw, and headache.
How to treat: Treatment for malocclusion depends on its severity. It may involve braces, removal of one or more teeth, and, in some cases, surgery.
6. Parkinson’s disease
Parkinson’s disease can cause symptoms such as tremors, difficulty moving, and balance problems. According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, swallowing problems in Parkinson’s disease may lead to coughing, drooling, malnutrition, dehydration, or aspiration.
In more advanced stages, people may also develop speech and swallowing problems, which can further increase drooling.
How to treat: Treatment for Parkinson’s disease usually involves lifelong medication to help relieve symptoms and slow disease progression.
When to see a doctor
It is important to seek medical care in case of:
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Fever
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Difficulty swallowing or moving
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Confusion, drowsiness, or agitation
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Seizures
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Tremors
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Nausea and vomiting
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Difficulty breathing
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Diarrhea
These warning signs may indicate serious underlying conditions such as poisoning, infection, or neurological disorders (including cerebral palsy or Parkinson's disease). Prompt medical evaluation helps identify the cause and ensures appropriate treatment begins quickly.