Saliva is an essential fluid that helps keep our mouth moist and protects our teeth and gums from bacteria. It contains important enzymes and proteins that aid in digestion and protect the teeth and gums. Our bodies produce enough saliva to keep our mouths moist while we are awake. However, when we sleep, our body reduces saliva production. This can lead to a condition called xerostomia, commonly known as dry mouth. Some people may also produce excessive saliva, which can cause their mouth to become moistened while sleeping. In this article, we will explore the causes of excessive saliva in the mouth while sleeping and ways to prevent it.
Causes of Saliva in the Mouth While Sleeping
Excessive saliva in the mouth while sleeping, also known as drooling, can be caused by a variety of factors. These include:
- Sleeping position: Sleeping on your side or on your stomach can cause saliva to collect in your mouth, which can lead to drooling.
- Medication: Certain medications, such as those used to treat allergies or depression, can increase saliva production.
- GERD: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause stomach acid to back up into the throat, leading to an increase in saliva production.
- Breathing through the mouth: Breathing through the mouth during sleep can cause the mouth to dry out, leading to an increase in saliva production.
- Pregnancy: Some women may experience an increase in the production of saliva during pregnancy.
- Neurological conditions: Certain neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease or ALS, can cause an increase in saliva production.
Symptoms of Saliva in the Mouth While Sleeping
The symptoms of saliva in the mouth while you are sleeping may include the following:
- Waking up with a wet pillow or bedding due to excessive drooling
- A constant need to swallow during sleep
- Bad breath
- Sore throat or hoarseness
- Sleep disturbance
Remedies for Saliva in the Mouth While Sleeping
If you are experiencing excessive salivation during sleep, there are several things you can try:
- Improve your sleeping position: You can reduce the amount of saliva in your mouth by elevating your head while you sleep. Use a wedge pillow to elevate your head and upper body during sleep.
- Use a humidifier: A humidifier can add moisture to the air, reducing dry mouth and excessive salivation.
- Chewing gum or sucking on hard candy: Chewing gum or sucking on hard candy can stimulate the production of saliva, which can help to reduce the build-up of saliva in the mouth.
- Practice good oral hygiene: Brush and floss regularly. This will help reduce the build-up of bacteria and bad breath.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help keep your mouth moist and reduce excessive saliva production.
Excessive salivation may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. It is important to see a doctor if you regularly experience excessive salivation or drooling. Your doctor can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Saliva from Baby’s Mouth While Sleeping
Saliva from a baby’s mouth during sleep is the excess drool that can accumulate on the baby’s face or pillow during sleep. It can be a normal occurrence, especially during teething. However, it can also indicate an underlying health condition or discomfort, such as an allergy or infection.
Although saliva from a baby’s mouth during sleep is usually harmless, there are some risks associated with it, such as:
- Skin irritation: Excess drool can cause skin irritation and rashes on the baby’s face or neck.
- Choking: If baby sleeps on stomach, excess drool may increase risk of choking.
- Sleep disturbance: If the baby feels uncomfortable because of the excessive drooling, it can cause frequent waking during the night, which can lead to sleep problems for both the baby and the mother.
Conclusion
Excessive saliva in the mouth while you sleep can be uncomfortable and annoying. However, it is usually nothing to worry about. Changing your sleeping position, practicing good oral hygiene and staying hydrated can help prevent excessive salivation. If you are experiencing excessive salivation or drooling on a regular basis, it is important to see a doctor for an evaluation to determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.