It\u2019s a small detail that we notice when we wake up: a slightly damp pillow, a sticky cheek, or an unpleasant sensation in our mouth. And yes, you drooled while we slept! If this bothers you, don\u2019t worry: it\u2019s much more common than we think\u2026 and often completely harmless.
\nBut why does this happen? And what should you do if it becomes a regular occurrence?<\/p>\n
Gentle decryption.<\/p>\n
Drooling in your sleep: what you need to know<\/p>\n
A sign of deep sleep (and that\u2019s a pretty good sign)
\nDid you know that drooling can simply be a sign that you\u2019re sleeping soundly? During slow-wave and deep sleep, your body\u2019s muscles relax , including those in your mouth. As a result, you swallow less saliva, which can then escape.<\/p>\n
A sign that your body is resting really well.<\/p>\n
Your sleeping position matters<\/p>\n
Do you sleep on your side or stomach? In these positions, gravity makes it easier for saliva to flow out of the mouth. Conversely, when you sleep on your back, saliva is more easily swallowed.<\/p>\n
A small change in position may be enough to reduce these nocturnal episodes.<\/p>\n
Blocked nose = mouth breathing = more visible salivation
\ncontinued on next page<\/p>\n
A stuffy nose (cold, allergies, sinusitis, etc.) often causes people to breathe through their mouths at night. And a half-open mouth means\u2026 saliva on the loose. In this case, the real problem lies with nasal breathing.<\/p>\n
Remember to clear your nose before bed with a saline spray or nasal douche.<\/p>\n
A little too much saliva?<\/p>\n
Some people naturally produce more saliva. But excessive salivation can also be linked to:<\/p>\n
Certain medications (antidepressants, antihistamines, etc.)
\nGastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
\nEating habits , such as eating dinner too late
\nNothing alarming, but something to watch out for if the phenomenon becomes recurrent.<\/p>\n
What if it\u2019s a sleep disorder?
\nIn rarer cases, excessive nocturnal salivation may be a symptom of a neurological or muscular disorder.<\/p>\n
Sleep apnea, for example, can cause mouth breathing and frequent awakenings with drooling.<\/p>\n
If you snore, often wake up tired or have trouble breathing properly at night , don\u2019t hesitate to talk to a healthcare professional.<\/p>\n
What to do if you drool often at night?<\/p>\n\n