The doctor explained what diseases saliva on the pillow may indicate

Drooling onto the pillow during sleep is a phenomenon familiar to many. However, behind this seemingly harmless symptom, serious diseases may be hiding, including gastroesophageal reflux disease and amyotrophic sclerosis. This warning was issued by Dr. Landon Duyka from the renowned Cleveland Clinic, whose words are cited by the publication Infobae.

As the physician explained, the most common cause of nighttime drooling is the position in which a person sleeps. When the body is positioned on its side or stomach, saliva easily flows out of the mouth under the force of gravity. Nevertheless, in some cases, this symptom can point to real health problems.

Increased salivation frequently accompanies infections and allergic reactions. The common cold, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, and sinusitis cause tissue inflammation and impede nasal breathing, forcing a person to breathe through the mouth. This is precisely what causes saliva to leak out during nighttime hours. A similar effect can be caused by certain respiratory tract infections, including mononucleosis.

Another potential culprit is gastroesophageal reflux disease. In this condition, stomach acid irritates the walls of the esophagus, and the body responds by producing an increased amount of saliva in an attempt to neutralize the acid. The accumulated excess fluid then leaks out during sleep.

"In addition, drooling is sometimes associated with neurological diseases. Conditions such as Parkinson's disease, cerebral palsy, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis can impair the ability to swallow, leading to the accumulation of saliva in the mouth," the doctor warns.

Dental problems also play a role. Bruxism — teeth grinding during sleep — as well as malocclusion prevent the mouth from fully closing, making it easier for saliva to leak out. Beyond this, doctors draw attention to the fact that increased salivation may turn out to be a side effect of certain medications, including some antibiotics.

Duyka emphasized that in the vast majority of cases, nighttime drooling poses no serious threat and resolves on its own. However, if it occurs suddenly, becomes persistent, or is accompanied by other alarming symptoms, a visit to the doctor should not be postponed.