What Are Effective Methods to Stop Drooling While Sleeping?

Managing drooling while sleeping often starts with reducing the amount of saliva produced and encouraging better swallowing. One effective method is medication. Anticholinergic drugs, which lower saliva production, have been used successfully in both adults and children, and are sometimes considered for people with neurological conditions that cause drooling. If drooling is due to a condition like motor neuron disease, a healthcare provider might also consider injections of botulinum toxin into the salivary glands to lessen saliva production. Besides medications, adjusting your sleep posture can help as well. For example, sleeping on your back rather than on your side may prevent saliva from pooling in your mouth and leaking out. In some cases, oral motor exercises and behavioral strategies can strengthen the muscles involved in swallowing, thus improving saliva control during sleep. Additionally, using absorbent pillow protectors or towels can help manage the spillover. It’s important to discuss these options with a healthcare provider, as they can help tailor a plan suited to your specific situation and ensure safe, effective treatment.