Drooling is a natural process that helps you to swallow and keep your mouth moist. However, excessive drooling can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Although it’s not uncommon for babies to have runny noses or adults with sinus infections to drool, there are other reasons why people might experience excessive drooling. Here are some common causes of excessive drooling:
Medication
- Antidepressants
- Antihistamines
- Sedatives
- Antipsychotics
- Antiemetics (medicines to prevent or treat nausea and vomiting)
- Anticonvulsants (medicines to reduce seizures in epilepsy)
- Antihypertensives (blood pressure-lowering medications)
- Anticoagulants (medicines that thin the blood and prevent clots)
Allergies
Allergies are a common cause of excessive drooling. If you have allergies and experience persistent unexplained drooling, it’s possible that your allergy is causing the issue. The most common allergens associated with drooling are:
- Dust mites
- Pollen (from trees, grasses, weeds)
- Pets (cats and dogs)
Nerve damage
Nerve damage can occur as a result of injury or illness, and if it causes drooling it can be treated. Nerve damage can also cause other symptoms, including:
- Pain in your face, neck or arms
- Hand tremors
- Muscle weakness
Neurological disorders
Neurological disorders are another possible cause of excessive drooling. These include Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, multiple sclerosis and ALS. Frontotemporal dementia is also a possibility if you’re experiencing memory loss or changes in personality as well as drooling issues.
Drooling can be a sign of some underlying conditions.
Drooling can be a sign of some underlying conditions.
If you are drooling and it is not related to an obvious cause, such as fever or allergies, then you should see your doctor.
Conclusion
If you or someone you know is experiencing excessive drooling, contact your doctor immediately. It’s important to identify the underlying cause of the problem so that it can be treated appropriately. Our healthcare professionals are also available 24/7 via phone or chat if you want to talk with a physician before visiting us in person!
