Dr Harshad Nikte, an ENT specialist at Apollo Hospitals, says drooling occurs when there is too much saliva produced or when the muscles around the mouth, lips and throat are unable to contain the saliva.
Causes of drooling while sleeping
- Sleeping position
- Mouth breathing
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Difficulty swallowing
- Effects of certain drugs
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Tonsils
How to stop drooling
- Adjust your sleeping position: Sleeping on your back helps keep saliva in the throat, where it can be swallowed easily.
- Improve nasal breathing: Using a saline spray or nasal strips while sleeping can help clear nasal passages and reduce mouth breathing.
- Drink enough water: Helps maintain balance in saliva thickness, making it easier for you to swallow even while sleeping.
- Change medication: If you notice that drooling starts after taking a medication, talk to your doctor about switching to another prescription.
- Use of oral appliances: These devices, usually custom-fitted by a dentist, help reposition the tongue and jaw in a way that improves nasal breathing and reduces saliva leakage during sleep.
