Excessive nighttime drooling: Signs and potential health risks

Why does our body produce excessive amounts of saliva at night? There are several reasons, as noted by family physician Dr. Neal H. Patel, whose comments were cited by Business Insider.

When do we consider drooling excessive? Health Guide lists some signs, such as noticeable traces of saliva on the pillow upon waking, discomfort during sleep, unpleasant mouth odour, a frequent need to wipe the mouth, difficulties with clear speech, and a feeling of fullness in the mouth.

We can produce up to 2 litres of saliva daily, necessary for proper digestion and oral protection. Its production significantly reduces at night. Therefore, if we notice signs of excessive drooling, we should consider the possible cause.

Dr. Neal Patel points out that excessive saliva production occurs in individuals who do not hydrate their body properly during the day. In such cases, the body increases saliva production to cope with the unpleasant dryness in the mouth.

However, this is not the only cause. Drooling also occurs in individuals suffering from acid reflux. It often arises when we consume a large meal before bed—the increased amount of stomach acids causes the salivary glands to be more active to neutralize the acid. In this case, it's important to address changes in eating habits.

Excessive saliva production at night may also be a symptom of sleep apnea. It's crucial to consult with a doctor and properly treat this condition.

Drooling can also be associated with seasonal allergies and upper respiratory tract infections, as informed by Dr. Thomas Michael Kilkenny, mentioned by the Health Guide portal. To rule out conditions such as stroke or Parkinson's disease, if we notice excessive saliva production at night, we should definitely see a general practitioner.