Have you ever noticed wet spots on your pillow when you wake up? This common occurrence is usually caused by saliva. While it might seem strange or embarrassing, science explains why it happens.
Saliva is naturally produced by your salivary glands throughout the day and night. (Scientific Proof) Its main role is to keep your mouth moist, help with digestion, and fight bacteria.
When you sleep, your saliva production decreases, but certain factors can cause you to drool more than usual.
One major reason is your sleeping position. People who sleep on their side or stomach are more likely to let saliva escape from their mouths. Gravity works against you, and saliva can easily leak onto your pillow.
Another factor is nasal congestion. If your nose is blocked due to allergies, a cold, or sinus problems, you tend to breathe through your mouth. This can increase drooling while you sleep.
Certain medical conditions can also play a role. Acid reflux, sleep apnea, and some neurological disorders may cause excessive saliva production or difficulty swallowing while asleep.
Even your diet and hydration matter. Eating heavy meals before bed or drinking alcohol can relax your throat muscles and make drooling more likely.
Interestingly, drooling is not always a sign of a problem. For many people, it simply means they are in a deep, relaxed sleep. In fact, it can indicate that your body is resting well and your muscles are fully relaxed.
To reduce drooling, you can try sleeping on your back, treating nasal congestion, or adjusting your diet. If drooling is sudden, excessive, or accompanied by other symptoms, it may be wise to consult a doctor.
In short, saliva on your pillow is a normal, natural phenomenon. Science shows it is mostly linked to sleep position, breathing patterns, and relaxation levels. Understanding this can help you manage it and sleep comfortably.+See more details




