Waking up with a damp pillow isn’t always harmless. If this common childhood phenomenon persists into adulthood, it could reveal warning signals from your body. Discover what your body is trying to tell you through this often-minimized reflex.
6 medical reasons for nocturnal hypersalivation
Dental problems: from gum inflammation to occlusion issues
Smiling woman showing her teeth
Oral irritations, whether from cavities, abscesses, or ill-fitting dentures, can trigger excessive saliva production. Dental malocclusion or gum inflammation can easily disrupt the natural mechanism of saliva control during the night.
Our recommendation: make an appointment with a dentist if you suspect any problems. A healthy and properly aligned oral cavity is the best prevention against this issue.
Facial paralysis: less muscle tone
When one side of the face shows decreased muscle tone, it may indicate facial paralysis. This asymmetry makes it difficult to retain saliva, particularly on the affected side.
Characteristic symptoms: an asymmetrical smile, an eyelid that does not close completely… Faced with these signs, an urgent medical consultation is necessary.
GERD: Acid reflux as a trigger
This common digestive disorder can cause excessive salivation. The reason? Esophageal irritation caused by acid reflux stimulates increased saliva production as a protective mechanism.
Associated symptoms: burning sensation behind the sternum, acid regurgitation. Appropriate management usually leads to significant improvement.
Parkinson’s: a frequently underestimated symptom
Among the many symptoms of this neurodegenerative disease, hypersalivation is often present. Not only does production increase, but the swallowing difficulties typical of the disease exacerbate the problem.
Other suggestive signs: muscle rigidity, slowed movements, tremors at rest.
Stroke: a warning sign
The formation of a blood clot in the brain can impair the control of the muscles involved in swallowing. The result: salivation, primarily on one side of the body, during sleep.
Emergency situation involving: persistent unilateral salivation, deviation of the mouth, visual or speech disturbances.
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