What Causes Excessive Saliva: Symptoms Excess Saliva - Sjogren’S Syndrome And Treatment  ?

What Causes Excessive Saliva - Pregnancy And Other Causes

Saliva is very important in the process of food tasting and digestion and also plays a part in keeping the mouth clean. It lubricates the mouth and also protects against bacteria and infection. The saliva is produced by tiny glands called the salivary glands or ducts. Saliva is composed of digestive enzymes and other chemicals. Potassium, sodium and water also constitute the saliva. The nervous system plays a part in the production of saliva. Food placed in the mouth causes the salivary ducts to produce saliva, as does the smell of food. Excessive saliva production in the mouth is a short term problem and should not be a cause for worry. About one to two quarts of saliva is usually produced by the saliva glands. We do not usually take note of this as we constantly swallow and we do this mostly unconsciously. A condition known as sialorrhea is characterized by an excessive quantity of saliva in the mouth. This is due to the increased production of saliva by the glands or due to a reduction in the frequency with which we swallow. The causes for this condition include dentures, pregnancy, stomatitis or inflammation of the membranes in the mouth, damage to the salivary glands and side effects of certain medications. Tooth decay and tonsillitis can also raise the saliva production. Ulcers or cold sores in the mouth can also cause excess saliva to be produced.

Symptoms Excess Saliva - Sjogren’S Syndrome

Disruptions in swallowing could occur due to conditions known as sjogren’s syndrome, bell’s palsy and gastroesophageal reflux. Some people have strong reflexes in the salivary glands which produce saliva in a long flow from one of the glands. If you are facing a problem of excessive saliva in the mouth, then it is best to consult a doctor or a dentist in order to determine whether the condition is being caused by an increased production of saliva or a disruption in swallowing. The treatment for this condition will aim at treating the underlying cause of it.

Excessive Saliva Treatment

To reduce the excess saliva in the mouth, try sucking on a slice of lemon. This will control the amount of saliva in the mouth. Sugar is known to increase the production of saliva and hence cutting back on sugary foods will help to ease the problem. Placing some ground coffee under the tongue will help in the absorption of excess saliva. Another effective home remedy for tackling this problem is to suck on some sunflower seeds.