Drooling While Sleeping: What to Know

Waking up with a wet pillow is, let’s be honest, not the greatest start to your day. You might even find some drool hanging at the corner of your mouth. It’s embarrassing, especially if you’re lying next to someone new. But if you’re with a long-term partner or sleeping solo, it generally isn’t a huge issue—unless it’s a regular occurrence.

Dr. Landon Duyka from Northwestern University points out that it’s common to drool now and then, particularly after a night of drinking or dozing off on the couch. However, if it becomes a nightly issue, it’s worth checking in with a doctor. It might indicate a more serious sleep disorder or, in some cases, a neurological condition such as Parkinson’s.

Understanding the Causes

There are various reasons behind drooling, some of which are harmless while others are not. If you’re worried about it, Dr. Neil Hockstein suggests starting with an at-home sleep study to figure out if there’s an underlying cause.

Sleep Apnea: This condition can be a significant culprit. People with sleep apnea stop breathing numerous times throughout the night, leading to mouth breathing, which can cause saliva to escape. Duyka says it’s a medical condition that shouldn’t be overlooked, especially if you’re being told you snore or waking up with a dry mouth.

Interestingly, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine notes that about 23.5 million Americans might have undiagnosed sleep apnea, which can lead to severe health issues like heart disease or depression if untreated.

Mouth Breathing: Experts mention that being a mouth breather can also lead to drooling. Some folks naturally breathe through their mouths due to issues like a deviated septum or a recessed jaw. If you suspect this could be you, it might be worth consulting an ENT specialist.

There’s also a trend fueled by online influencers recommending mouth taping to encourage nasal breathing. However, experts caution that this practice might not be beneficial and could even be dangerous, especially for those with sleep apnea.

Acid Reflux: If you often wake up with an unpleasant taste or throat irritation, you might deal with acid reflux, which can lead to increased saliva production. Dr. Duyka emphasizes that this condition can be tied to coughing at night due to excess saliva.

Other Causes: Seasonal allergies, colds, or infections can also ramp up drooling. Even dental problems like teeth grinding or misalignment can contribute. Duyka recommends consulting your dentist if you suspect this is the case.

Your sleeping position matters too. Side and stomach sleepers are more likely to notice drooling simply because gravity encourages it. In contrast, back sleepers might find that saliva stays put or goes down their throat.

However, those with swallowing difficulties need to be cautious. As Duyka notes, not everyone has the same reflexes as they age, potentially leading to risks like silent aspiration.

It’s essential to address any concerns about drooling with a medical professional specializing in ear, nose, and throat issues. A thorough evaluation often includes questions about snoring, fatigue, and more, all of which can lead to recommendations for a sleep study if necessary.

Dr. Hockstein reassures that drooling is generally not a significant problem unless linked to specific conditions. If allergies seem to trigger it, over-the-counter antihistamines might help.