why am i producing so much saliva

1 hour ago 1
Nature

Excessive saliva production, medically called hypersalivation or sialorrhea, can be caused by a variety of factors. These include conditions that cause the salivary glands to produce too much saliva or issues that reduce the clearance of normal saliva in the mouth. Common causes include infections (such as oral infections, tonsillitis), dental problems, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), pregnancy (due to hormones or morning sickness), certain medications, anxiety, as well as exposure to certain toxins and heavy metals. Eating acidic or spicy foods, nausea, and neurological disorders may also lead to increased saliva production. Sometimes blocked salivary ducts or inflammation of the salivary glands can be responsible as well. If the excess saliva is sudden, it might be related to infections, medication side effects, acid reflux, or even hormonal changes during pregnancy. In chronic cases, underlying neurological or systemic health issues might be involved. Since saliva production is controlled by the nervous system, disruptions in this can also cause hypersalivation. If excessive saliva is causing discomfort, difficulty swallowing, drooling, or irritation, and it persists, medical evaluation is advised to diagnose the exact cause and obtain appropriate treatment.