Salivation

Drooling is generally caused by excess production of saliva, inability to retain saliva within the mouth, or problems with swallowing.

Some people with drooling problems are at increased risk of inhaling saliva, food, or fluids into the lungs. However, this is unlikely to cause harm, unless the body's normal reflex mechanisms (such as gagging and coughing) are also impaired.

Isolated drooling in infants and toddlers is normal and is unlikely to be a sign of either disease or complications. It may be associated with teething. Drooling in infants and young children may be exacerbated by upper respiratory infections and nasal allergies.

Drooling associated with fever or trouble swallowing may be a sign of a more serious disease including:

• Retropharyngeal abscess
• Peritonsillar abscess
• Tonsilitis
• Mononucleosis
• Strep throat

A sudden onset of drooling may indicate poisoning (especially by pesticides) or reaction to snake or insect venom. Some medications can cause drooling as well. Some neurological problems also cause drooling.

Care for drooling due to teething includes good oral hygiene. Popsicles or other cold objects (e.g., frozen bagels) may be helpful. Care must be taken to avoid choking when a child uses any of these objects.

If the cause of the drooling has not been diagnosed or if there is concern about aspiration, call your health care provider.

The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting drooling in detail may include:

• Associated conditions
  • Does the person have a known history of any other diseases?
  • Has the person had a bite or sting? What type?
  • Has the person had an injury? What type?
• What medications are being taken?
• What other symptoms are also present?
  • Is there a fever?
  • Is there a sore throat?
  • Is there a facial droop?
  • Are there other symptoms?

Diagnostic tests will be performed as indicated by other symptoms that accompany the drooling.

After seeing your health care provider, if a diagnosis was made related to drooling, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record.