Do You Drool in Your Sleep? Here’s What It Could Be Telling You About Your Health!
Waking up to a wet pillow? You’re not alone—and it might mean more than just a deep sleep. Occasional drooling can be harmless, but frequent nighttime drool could point to underlying health issues or sleep habits.
Here are 10 reasons you might be drooling while you sleep:
- Deep Sleep Cycles – Drooling often happens during REM sleep when facial muscles relax.
- Sleeping on Your Side or Stomach – Gravity causes saliva to escape more easily in these positions.
- Sinus or Nasal Congestion – Blocked airways force you to breathe through your mouth, increasing drool.
- Allergies – Seasonal or food allergies can inflame airways, encouraging mouth breathing.
- GERD (Acid Reflux) – Excessive saliva is produced to neutralize acid, especially when lying down.
- Sleep Apnea – Interrupted breathing during sleep can trigger mouth breathing and drooling.
- Medication Side Effects – Certain drugs (especially antipsychotics or Parkinson’s meds) can boost saliva production.
- Neurological Conditions – In rare cases, drooling can be linked to nerve or muscle control issues.
- Swallowing Difficulties (Dysphagia) – In older adults or stroke survivors, trouble swallowing saliva can lead to drooling.
- Tonsillitis or Throat Infections – Painful swallowing can lead to excess saliva escaping the mouth at night.
Is it normal?
Occasional drooling is usually not a cause for concern. But if it’s excessive or new, it might be time to evaluate your sleep health.
Tip: Try adjusting your sleeping position, clearing nasal passages before bed, and staying hydrated.
Share this with someone who always jokes about waking up in a puddle! You might just help them discover something important about their health.
