Global Sialorrhea Treatment: Causes of Excessive Saliva Production
Causes of Excessive Saliva Production
There are several medical conditions that can cause excessive saliva production, also known as Sialorrhea Treatment Some of the most common causes include:
Neurological disorders – Conditions that affect the nervous system such as Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis (MS), cerebral palsy and stroke can disrupt normal swallowing mechanisms. This leads to difficulty swallowing saliva which accumulates in the mouth.
Head or neck infections – Bacterial or viral infections in the mouth, throat or salivary glands can cause inflammation and excess saliva secretion on a temporary basis until the infection clears up. Examples include mumps and strep throat.
Medications – Some prescription drugs like antidepressants, antihypertensives and bronchodilators are known to cause sialorrhea as a side effect by increasing salivary gland activity. Over-the-counter medications containing decongestants can also contribute to excess saliva production.
Radiation therapy – Radiation treatment to the head and neck area for cancers like oral cancer may damage the salivary glands, disrupting their normal functioning. This results in sialorrhea even years after therapy ends.
Symptoms
The symptoms of excessive drooling or spilling of saliva from the mouth include:
– Constant wet feeling or moisture in the mouth
– Saliva pooling in the lips and chin area
– Saliva escaping from the corners of the mouth
– Difficulty swallowing saliva which results in dribbling out
– Requirement to spit or wipe saliva frequently
– Embarrassment or discomfort from wet clothing due to drooling
– Social isolation and low self-esteem due to appearance of drooling
If not properly managed, sialorrhea can lead to various medical, practical and psychosocial issues for patients. It is important to consult a doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive adequate Sialorrhea Treatment.
Medical Complications
Excessive drooling over a prolonged period, if left untreated, can increase the risk of other health problems like:
– Dehydration – The excessive loss of water content through saliva can potentially lead to dehydration if fluid intake is inadequate. This is a major concern for people with severe sialorrhea.
– Respiratory tract infections – Some of the saliva entering the respiratory tract instead of the stomach increases vulnerability to pneumonia and other lung infections.
– Skin lesions – The damp environment around the mouth caused by drooling predisposes to infections, rashes,Scaling or non-healing ulcers on the lips and surrounding skin.
– Tooth decay – The constant exposure of teeth to saliva increases the risk of cavities due to increased acid attacks on enamel from foods and drinks. Proper oral care is important for oral hygiene.
Sialorrhea Treatment Options
Once the specific cause has been determined by a physician, targeted treatment options include both medical and surgical approaches:
Behavioral therapy: This focuses on postural techniques, exercises and mobilization strategies to redirect saliva away from the mouth by tilting the head forward during eating. Patients are also trained in swallowing methods.
Oral medications: Drugs like atropine, glycopyrrolate and scopolamine work by reducing salivary gland activity. They come in forms like tablets, liquids or patches applied to the gums. Side effects may include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation and urinary retention.
Botulinum toxin injections: Also known as Botox, it works by paralyzing the salivary glands when injected. Reduces drooling for 3-6 months but does not cure the underlying cause. Complications are rare.
Radiation therapy: Low dose radiation to salivary glands can help control excess secretions in some cases like head and neck cancers. Damage is usually temporary.
Salivary duct ligation: A minor surgical procedure involving threading of small metal coils or plugs into openings of ducts draining the submandibular glands under the jaw. Reduces flow of saliva externally.
Parotid gland resection: Removal of one or both the large parotid salivary glands situated near the ears is considered when other treatments provide inadequate relief. Drooling may persist due to retained submandibular and sublingual gland function.
Multidisciplinary approach: Combination of medical, behavioral and surgical interventions tailored to individual circumstances often results in better control of drooling. Close monitoring by doctors is essential.
Supportive Measures
Alongside active Sialorrhea Treatment, lifestyle adjustments and assistive devices help improve coping with sialorrhea:
– Keeping well hydrated prevents further dehydration from excessive fluid losses.
– Frequent oral cleaning aids maintaining dental and oral hygiene.
– Light, non-drippy foods reduce amount of saliva generated.
– Carrying tissues or bibs enables wiping off drool discreetly.
– Specialized neckbands, collecting bottles and absorbent pads are available to handle drool externally.
– Wearing loose, light clothing prevents heavy clothes from getting soaked.
With early detection and comprehensive management, patients affected by Sialorrhea Treatment can control symptoms and lead comfortable lives with the right treatment approach suited to individual needs. A combination of medical, surgical and supportive interventions usually gives optimal results.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
