Your symptoms of persistent excess saliva for nearly 2 years, especially the sensation of saliva collecting at the tip of your tongue and difficulty speaking, are most consistent with chronic hypersalivation (sialorrhea) or sometimes a sensory/oral control issue rather than true overproduction. Since you don’t have other major symptoms, common causes include allergies with post-nasal drip, acid reflux (silent reflux), anxiety-related oral awareness, or mild oral-motor coordination issues, all of which can make saliva feel excessive even if production is normal. The fact that it significantly affects your speech suggests that both physical and sensory factors may be involved. You should consider evaluation by an ENT specialist and possibly a speech/swallow therapist, who can assess saliva control and teach techniques to manage it. Treatments may include managing allergies, trying anti-reflux therapy, practicing swallowing and tongue-position exercises, or in some cases medications that reduce saliva production. Since this has been long-standing and impactful, a targeted, multidisciplinary approach (ENT + speech therapy) will likely give the best results rather than relying on medication alone.
Hi Max 👋
Possible causes of constant excess saliva (2 years, no other symptoms):
· Medication side effect (even over-the-counter) · Silent acid reflux / GERD · Chronic allergies or sinus congestion · Dental irritation or ill-fitting appliances · Idiopathic (unknown cause – not uncommon)
How to treat / manage:
· Rule out reflux: try small meals, avoid spicy/acidic foods for 2 weeks · Ask your doctor about low-dose anticholinergic meds (e.g., glycopyrrolate) · Botox injections into salivary glands (effective, temporary) · Swallow exercises (speech therapy) · Sugar-free lozenges or gum to help swallow more frequently
— Dr. Nikhil Chauhan
Hello dear See as per clinical history it seems sialorrhea or excessive saliva drooling due to either Hypersecretion Frey syndrome Inability to swallow during talking I suggest you to please get in person consultation with dental specialist or ent surgeon for Tongue irritation Saliva gland working Gum irritation Infection You need to have a Scintography USG Salivary gland Clinical evaluation Ct scan / mri Sialometry Hopefully you recover soon Regards
Hi Max, thanks for sharing your experience—excess saliva can be really frustrating, especially when it affects your speech and confidence. Let’s break down what might be going on and what you can do next.
### Why Might You Have Excess Saliva? - Saliva Overproduction (Hypersalivation): Sometimes, the salivary glands produce more saliva than usual. This can be triggered by acid reflux, dental issues, certain medications, or even anxiety. - Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): If you’re not able to swallow saliva efficiently, it can build up in your mouth. This can happen with throat or neurological issues, but often it’s just a mild functional problem. - Mouth or Throat Irritation: Chronic irritation from allergies, infections, or acid reflux can stimulate saliva production. - Dental or Oral Health Issues: Sometimes, dental problems or poorly fitting dental appliances can cause excess saliva.
### What You Can Try - Check for triggers: Notice if certain foods, drinks, or situations make it worse. - Maintain oral hygiene: Brush and floss regularly, and consider a dental check-up. - Stay hydrated: Sometimes, dehydration can paradoxically cause more saliva. - Try swallowing exercises: Practicing swallowing can help manage saliva buildup.
### When to See a Doctor - If you have trouble swallowing, changes in speech, or any other neurological symptoms. - If the problem is affecting your daily life and confidence, a visit to an ENT specialist or a speech therapist can help pinpoint the cause.
You’re not alone—this is a common issue, and there are ways to manage it.
Thank you
Excess saliva, known as hypersalivation or sialorrhea, can be caused by several factors. It’s important to understand what’s contributing to your specific situation. One common reason is dental issues like misalignment or dentures that don’t fit properly. Sometimes, certain medications, particularly those for psychiatric conditions, can increase saliva production. It’s worth reviewing any medications you’re on to see if sialorrhea is a noted side effect. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is another potential cause, where stomach acid backflows and stimulates salivary glands. Neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s or stroke might also be involved in certain cases, leading to impaired swallowing ability, thereby making it seem as if there is excess saliva. Ensuring you don’t have one of these underlying issues is crucial. As for management, start with attention to oral hygiene. Regular dental visits can rule out or address oral health issues. If medication is the issue, discuss with your doctor possibly adjusting the dosage or switching to alternatives. For GERD-related saliva excess, lifestyle changes like stopping smoking, reducing alcohol intake, eating smaller meals, and avoiding lying down after eating can help. In some cases, over-the-counter antacids or prescription medications like proton pump inhibitors may be recommended. However, in the presence of neurological conditions, specialized medical management might be necessary. If symptoms persist or impact your quality of life, consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan. They can conduct necessary tests, such as blood work or imaging, to precisely identify the cause. It’s important you’re evaluated properly to exclude any serious conditions.
