Possible causes include gum or throat inflammation, dental problems, facial paralysis, acid reflux, Parkinson’s disease, or conditions that affect blood flow and swallowing. Warning signs include one-sided drooling, a crooked mouth, facial weakness, difficulty closing an eye, heartburn, or trouble swallowing.
Sleeping on your back, maintaining good oral hygiene, treating dental problems, and keeping your nasal passages clear may help reduce drooling. When medication appears to be the cause, speak with a doctor rather than stopping or changing it yourself.
Seek medical help urgently if drooling begins suddenly with facial weakness, slurred speech, numbness, confusion, severe headache, or difficulty walking, as these can be signs of a stroke. Frequent unexplained drooling should also be discussed with a healthcare professional.
