Some people naturally produce more saliva than average. This hypersalivation can be caused by several factors:
Certain medications, such as antihistamines or antidepressants;
gastroesophageal reflux, sometimes subtle;
meals that are too heavy or too late.
If this happens repeatedly, it might be helpful to talk to a healthcare professional. There’s nothing to worry about, but it’s always good to understand what your body is trying to tell you.
When should we be worried?
In rare cases, excessive salivation during sleep can be linked to more serious disorders, such as sleep apnea or certain neuromuscular problems. Here are some warning signs:
Persistent fatigue upon waking,
loud snoring,
restless sleep with frequent micro-awakenings,
and nighttime breathing difficulties.
