If You Drool While Sleeping Often, Check for These 6 Diseases

Drooling during sleep is something most people experience occasionally, especially when in a deep sleep. It can seem harmless and even amusing, but when it becomes a regular occurrence, it may be your body’s way of signaling an underlying medical condition. Persistent drooling—also known as sialorrhea or ptyalism—can be linked to several diseases and disorders, some of which require medical attention.

Here’s a closer look at why you might be drooling excessively while sleeping and six health conditions that could be responsible.


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1. Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. One of the lesser-known symptoms of sleep apnea is mouth breathing, which often leads to drooling. When your nasal passages are blocked or your airway collapses during sleep, you tend to open your mouth to breathe, resulting in saliva escaping during the night.

Other symptoms to watch for:

Loud snoring

Gasping or choking during sleep

Daytime fatigue or drowsiness

Morning headaches


If you suspect sleep apnea, it's important to consult a doctor. Left untreated, it can lead to serious cardiovascular problems and reduced quality of life.


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2. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD is a digestive disorder where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing discomfort and irritation. GERD can stimulate the production of excess saliva as the body attempts to neutralize the acid. This increase in saliva, especially while lying down, can lead to nighttime drooling.

Other signs of GERD include:

Heartburn or chest discomfort

Sour taste in the mouth

Chronic cough or sore throat

Difficulty swallowing


If you drool often and also experience symptoms of acid reflux, GERD could be the underlying cause.


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3. Neurological Disorders

Certain neurological conditions can impair muscle control in the mouth and face, making it difficult to manage saliva properly. Disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy, ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), and stroke are known to cause excessive drooling.

In such cases, drooling can occur both during the day and night, as the muscles responsible for swallowing and facial control weaken or become uncoordinated.

Symptoms that may accompany drooling in neurological conditions:

Slurred speech

Tremors or muscle weakness

Loss of coordination

Difficulty swallowing


If drooling is accompanied by any of these neurological symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical evaluation immediately.


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4. Sinus Infections or Allergies

Blocked nasal passages due to allergies, colds, or sinus infections can force you to breathe through your mouth while sleeping, which can cause drooling. When the nose is congested, the mouth opens to compensate for restricted airflow, and saliva can easily escape.

Look for these signs:

Nasal congestion or runny nose

Facial pressure or sinus pain

Sneezing and watery eyes

Postnasal drip


Treating the underlying allergy or infection usually helps resolve the drooling issue.


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5. Tonsillitis or Throat Infections

Inflamed tonsils, throat infections, or even dental abscesses can make swallowing painful or difficult. When swallowing becomes painful, people unconsciously avoid it, which leads to a build-up of saliva in the mouth and increased drooling during sleep.

Common indicators of tonsillitis or infection include:

Sore throat or difficulty swallowing

Swollen tonsils

Fever

Bad breath


If these symptoms persist along with drooling, it’s advisable to see a doctor for appropriate treatment.


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6. Medication Side Effects

Some medications, particularly those affecting the nervous system or used in psychiatric care, can lead to increased saliva production or impair your ability to swallow effectively. For example, medications for Alzheimer’s, schizophrenia, or depression may list drooling as a side effect.

Additionally, medications that cause relaxation or drowsiness can reduce muscle control during sleep, making it harder to keep saliva in the mouth.

Common medications associated with drooling include:

Antipsychotics

Muscle relaxants

Sedatives

Certain Alzheimer’s medications


If you’ve recently started a new medication and noticed a change in your nighttime saliva levels, consult your healthcare provider for alternatives or adjustments.


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When to See a Doctor

Occasional drooling is not usually a cause for concern. However, if it becomes frequent, heavy, or is accompanied by other symptoms—like difficulty swallowing, persistent bad breath, or unexplained fatigue—it’s time to seek medical advice. An accurate diagnosis can help rule out serious conditions and provide effective treatment.


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Tips to Reduce Nighttime Drooling

If no serious medical condition is found, there are still several strategies you can use to manage excessive drooling:

Sleep on your back: Side sleeping can increase drooling due to gravity.

Elevate your head: A slightly elevated pillow can help reduce saliva pooling.

Practice good oral hygiene: Infections and gum disease can contribute to drooling.

Use nasal sprays or allergy medication: Keeping airways clear helps reduce mouth breathing.

Stay hydrated: Ironically, dehydration can lead to thick saliva that pools in the mouth.



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Final Thoughts

While drooling during sleep may seem like a minor nuisance, frequent or excessive drooling can be a sign of something more serious. It’s your body’s way of telling you that something might be off—whether it’s your breathing, digestion, nervous system, or immune response.

Pay attention to other symptoms, track how often it happens, and consult a healthcare provider if you're concerned. With the right diagnosis and care, you can not only stop the drooling but also improve your overall health and sleep quality.