Why You Might Be Drooling in Your Sleep

Let’s be clear: drooling while sleeping is usually not a cause for concern. For most people, it’s a normal bodily function that happens during deep sleep. However, it can still be embarrassing—especially if it happens in public, like on a plane or at someone else’s house.

Although often harmless, drooling can sometimes point to underlying health issues. If it becomes excessive or new for you, it may be worth investigating. Understanding the causes can help you know when to relax and when to seek advice.

One of the most common causes of nighttime drooling is sleep position. Sleeping on your side or stomach allows saliva to pool and leak from the mouth. In contrast, back sleepers are less likely to drool, as gravity keeps saliva in place.

Allergies and sinus infections are also culprits. Nasal congestion forces mouth breathing, increasing the chances of drooling. When your airways are blocked, saliva has nowhere to go but out.

Another cause is acid reflux. When stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, it can irritate the throat and stimulate saliva production. This extra saliva can easily leak out during sleep.

Neurological conditions or medications may also be to blame. Certain diseases like Parkinson’s or the side effects of antidepressants can interfere with muscle control, making it harder to swallow during sleep.

Other possibilities include sleep apnea, where interrupted breathing can lead to increased saliva flow. If you snore or feel tired despite a full night’s rest, you might want to get evaluated for this.

In some cases, drooling may simply be due to an overproduction of saliva, which can be managed with diet or medical treatment. It’s rare, but it happens.

If drooling is frequent, disruptive, or comes with other symptoms like choking or fatigue, it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional.

Ultimately, a little drool now and then is nothing to stress about—but understanding why it happens can help you sleep (and drool) more comfortably.