10 Reasons You’re Drooling While You Sleep and What It Could Mean (Page 3 ) | May 21, 2025

Closeup of deviated nasal septum severe septal deviation condition
A deviated nasal septum can block airflow, causing mouth breathing and potential drooling during sleep. The septum is a thin wall of cartilage that separates your naval cavities. If this wall of cartilage is at all off-center, it can cause some issues with breathing, particularly at night time. There are surgeries to fix this, however, it is important to speak to your healthcare provider to determine if this is right for you.
5. Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea, a condition where breathing pauses during sleep, can lead to mouth breathing and excess saliva, resulting in drooling. It is hard to know if you have this on your own. Other symptoms include loud snoring and sounds of choking. You will also find yourself often waking up not feeling well rested. Sleep apnea can affect those who live with you as well as your own health, so it is important to consult your doctor about your options for overcoming it.
6. Infection or Dental Issues
Woman, toothache and mouth pain in home for cavity, tooth infection or dental emergency. Gums, healthcare and female person with hand on face for oral hygiene, inflammation or gingivitis problem
An infection in the mouth or gums, including cavities, can stimulate saliva production, leading to drooling. If you have an infection, you may notice pain, particularly while eating, swallowing, or trying to speak. You also may notice swelling, as well as blood while brushing your teeth. If you think you have an infection it is crucial that you visit your doctor or dentist as soon as possible to solve the problem.
7. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD is a condition that often leads to acid reflux, also known as heart burn. GERD can also lead to dysphagia or difficulty swallowing, resulting in excess salivation and drooling while sleeping. This is another important condition that does have a solution, so speak to your doctor if you have frequent heartburn and are drooling while sleeping.
8. Neurological Conditions