The connection: OSA causes repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. The body’s natural reaction is to open the mouth to inhale more air. This position, in which the jaw drops open and the facial muscles are relaxed, allows saliva to escape easily.
Other important signs to watch out for:
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Loud, chronic snoring, alternating with gasping breaths or silent pauses.
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Waking up with a choking sensation or gasping for breath.
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Excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue, despite a full night’s sleep.
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Morning headache and a dry mouth.
2. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
The connection: Stomach acid rising into the esophagus can trigger a reflex leading to excessive saliva production (waterbrash) as the body attempts to neutralize the acid. This excess saliva can build up and leak out during sleep.
Other important signs to watch out for:
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Heartburn or a burning sensation in the chest, often after eating or at night.
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Vomiting acidic liquid or food.
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Chronic cough, especially at night.
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A feeling of a lump in the throat (globus sensation).
3. Neurological disorders (Parkinson’s disease, stroke, Bell’s palsy)
The connection: These conditions can affect the nerves and muscles involved in swallowing (dysphagia) and closing the lips. The brain may not effectively signal the throat to swallow accumulated saliva.
Other important signs to watch out for:
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Parkinson’s: Tremors at rest, muscle stiffness, slow movements, reduced facial expression.
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After a stroke: sudden weakness/numbness on one side, slurred speech, drooping facial features.
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Bell’s palsy: Sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the face, difficulty closing one eye.
4. Sinus or throat infections (tonsillitis, strep throat infection)
The connection: Infections cause inflammation and pain in the throat. Swallowing becomes painful, which can cause the body to unconsciously avoid it during sleep. This leads to a buildup of saliva and drooling. Furthermore, a severely blocked nose forces breathing through the mouth.
Other important signs to watch out for:
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Severe sore throat, red/white spots on the tonsils.
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Fever and swollen lymph nodes.
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Stuffy nose and postnasal discharge.
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