Why Do I Drool When I Sleep? What do I do?

Do you wake up with a drool spot on your pillow? Drooling is a result of excessive saliva production. Excess saliva is medically known as hypersalivation or sialorrhea. Although it can feel weird, it is a common occurrence. But sometimes, excess saliva or drooling during sleep can indicate a health problem. This blog discusses three possible reasons why you drool when you sleep.

Why Do I Drool When I Sleep?

Even though it is common, drooling while sleeping can point to other medical problems. These include blocked sinuses, GERD, infections, allergies, sleeping disorders, swallowing difficulties, or something as usual as your sleeping position. Sleeping position is usually the cause, but let’s take a look at three common reasons that give insight into what is drooling a sign of:

1. Sleeping Position: You might be surprised to know that how you lie down while sleeping can be why saliva escapes your mouth. Did you know gravity plays a significant role in drooling? Those who sleep on their side or their stomach are more likely to drool when they sleep, as gravity pulls saliva down towards the pillow. As a result, you notice saliva patches on your pillow when you wake up. Mouth breathers or people with narrowed sinus passages are more prone to drooling while sleeping.
2. Sleep Apnea: Drooling is your saliva escaping your mouth unconsciously, which can signify a sleep disorder called sleep apnea. Therefore, if you are drooling while sleeping, look out for these symptoms in case you have sleep apnea:
   • Suddenly waking up during the night
   • Snoring
   • Suddenly gasping or feeling choking while sleeping
   • Trouble focusing during the day
   • Daytime sleepiness
   • Morning headaches
   • Experiencing a dry mouth or sore throat after waking up

   You should visit a reputable doctor if you experience these symptoms in addition to drooling.

3. Blocked Sinuses: A congested nose from a cold or an infection can cause drooling while you sleep. People with regularly inflamed or blocked sinus passages might often observe saliva escaping their mouth. Narrow or blocked sinuses lead to mouth breathing, making you drool.

How to Stop Drooling in Your Sleep?

Is drooling a sign of good sleep? Yes, it could be when it does not hint at medical problems. Drooling can mean that you are simply relaxed in your sleep, and so are your facial muscles and swallowing reflexes. Nonetheless, you can try these if you are drooling while sleeping:

• Try sleeping on your back, and contact your doctor if there are other problems.
• Drinking more water can help with this issue.
• A mandibular device, consult your doctor before trying this.
• CPAP machine for sleep apnea is usually a treatment doctors go for. Visit your doctor if you suspect sleep apnea to be the cause.

What Should I do?

Drooling while sleeping usually occurs due to your sleeping position. Medical conditions like sleep apnea, blocked sinuses, GERD, and allergies can also factor in. If you are concerned about the wet spot on your pillow when you wake up, our specialists at Sleep & Headache Solutions can help. Dial 832-688-8886 for your queries.