Why Drooling During Sleep Can Happen More Often Than You Think



  • During deep or REM sleep, muscle tone decreases—including in your face and throat. This natural relaxation can cause temporary drooling.
  • Totally normal, especially after a long, restful night.

4. Medications

  • Some drugs increase saliva production, including:
    • Certain antidepressants (like SSRIs)
    • Antipsychotics
    • Cholinesterase inhibitors (used for Alzheimer’s)
  • Check with your doctor before stopping any medication.

⚠️ Less Common—but Worth Noting—Causes

5. Acid Reflux (GERD)

  • Stomach acid irritates the esophagus, triggering excess saliva as a protective buffer (“water brash”).
  • Often accompanied by heartburn or a sour taste at night.

6. Dental or Oral Issues

  • Misaligned teeth, ill-fitting dentures, or oral infections can alter mouth posture and saliva flow.

7. Neurological Conditions (Rare)

  • Conditions like Parkinson’s disease, stroke, or ALS can affect swallowing or facial muscle control, leading to chronic drooling.
  • But: This is usually accompanied by other symptoms (tremors, slurred speech, weakness).

🛌 When Is It Normal?

✅ Occasional drooling (e.g., after allergy season or during a cold)
✅ Only happens in certain sleep positions
✅ No other symptoms (like choking, difficulty swallowing, or daytime drooling)

🚨 When to See a Doctor

  • Drooling is constant (day and night)
  • You’re choking or coughing at night
  • You have difficulty swallowing, facial weakness, or slurred speech
  • It’s new, sudden, and unexplained—especially with other neurological symptoms

❤️ The Bottom Line

For most people, nighttime drooling is just a quirky, harmless part of sleep—not a health threat. In fact, it often means you’re sleeping deeply and comfortably!
Your body isn’t malfunctioning—it’s just relaxing a little too well. 😴
So unless it’s frequent, excessive, or paired with other symptoms, there’s no need to worry. But if it’s affecting your sleep quality or self-confidence, simple fixes (like changing position or treating allergies) often help.
Sweet dreams—and yes, it’s okay if your pillow gets a little damp. 💛