When you sleep on your side, gravity causes your mouth to open, and saliva escapes instead of being swallowed. This is the most common cause of drooling during sleep.
Possible causes include:
Sinus infection: May impair breathing and swallowing, leading to saliva buildup and drooling.
Heartburn or acid reflux: Stomach acid irritates the esophagus, which can trigger excess saliva production.
Allergies or poisoning: Conditions such as rhinitis, food allergies, or reactions to insect bites and venom can lead to increased salivation. Severe allergic reactions or poisoning may be life-threatening and require urgent medical attention.
Tonsillitis: The tonsils, located at the back of the throat, may become inflamed, making it difficult to swallow saliva, which then accumulates and leaks out.
Other causes:
Reflux and nausea due to pregnancy side effects
Diets high in acidic foods
Mononucleosis
Parkinson’s disease
Mental and neurological disorders
Dental issues
To determine the best course of treatment, it is essential to identify the underlying cause. If you experience symptoms of allergies, poisoning, sinus infections, tonsillitis, dental issues, or mental and neurological disorders, it is important to seek medical help as soon as possible.