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Alternative names Return to top
SalivationDefinition Return to top
Saliva flowing outside the mouth.Considerations Return to top
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.
Common Causes Return to top
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:
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.
Home Care Return to top
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.
Call your health care provider if Return to top
Call your health care provider if:
What to expect at your health care provider's office Return to top
The doctor will perform a physical examination and ask questions about the symptoms, such as:
Diagnostic tests will be performed as indicated by other symptoms that accompany the drooling.
Update Date: 5/3/2004 Updated by: Katrina McPherson, M.D., Department of Pediatrics, Jackson Memorial Hospital, Miami, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |