1. Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. People with sleep apnea often breathe through their mouths, which can lead to drooling. Additionally, the lack of oxygen during sleep can cause muscle relaxation, contributing to the drooling.
Symptoms to watch for:
- Loud snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Feeling tired during the day
- Difficulty concentrating
2. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD is a condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, leading to discomfort and a range of symptoms, including excessive saliva production. When the body produces more saliva to neutralize stomach acid, this can lead to drooling, especially while sleeping.
Symptoms to watch for:
- Heartburn or acid taste in the mouth
- Regurgitation of food or acid
- Chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing
3. Neurological Conditions (Parkinson’s Disease, Stroke, etc.)
Neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease or after a stroke, can interfere with the muscles responsible for swallowing and controlling saliva. This can lead to difficulty swallowing saliva, causing drooling during sleep or while awake.
Conditions to watch for:
- Parkinson’s disease (involuntary muscle movements and difficulty swallowing)
- Stroke (impaired swallowing muscles or coordination)
- Bell’s palsy (facial paralysis affecting saliva control)
