Drooling

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Drooling

Drooling is saliva flowing outside the mouth.

Salivation

Drooling is generally caused by too much saliva production, problems keeping saliva within the mouth, or problems with swallowing.

Some people with drooling problems are at increased risk of breathing in saliva, food, or fluids into the lungs. However, this may cause harm if there is a problem with the body's normal reflex mechanisms (such as gagging and coughing).

Occasional drooling in infants and toddlers is normal and is unlikely to be a sign of either disease or problem. It may be associated with teething. Drooling in infants and young children may get worse with upper respiratory infections and nasal allergies.

Drooling associated with fever or trouble swallowing may be a sign of a more serious disease, including:

• Retropharyngeal abscess
• Peritonsillar abscess
• Tonsillitis
• Mononucleosis
• Strep throat

Sudden drooling may indicate poisoning (especially by pesticides) or a reaction to snake or insect venom.

Other things that can cause drooling:

• Certain medications
• Neurological problems

Review Date: 05/10/2006
Reviewed By: Daniel Rauch, MD, FAAP, Director, Pediatric Hospitalist Program, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.