Health experts have warned Nigerians not to ignore the constant leaking of saliva during sleep, saying it could be a sign of serious health problems such as cancer or nerve disorders.
The condition, known medically as sialorrhoea or drooling, may look harmless, but experts say it can be linked to diseases like oral or oesophageal cancer, salivary gland tumours, or neurological conditions.
Professor Titus Ibekwe, Provost of the College of Health Sciences at the University of Abuja, told PUNCH Healthwise that people with airway diseases are more likely to drool at night.
“Persistent drooling could be associated with chronic illnesses, particularly those affecting the oral cavity and airway,” Prof Ibekwe said.
He added, “Chronic sinus infections, nasal blockages, throat infections like tonsillitis, and tumours in the nose or mouth, whether cancerous or not, can all cause this condition.”
Prof Ibekwe, who is also the Secretary-General of the Association of Provosts of Colleges of Medicine in Nigeria, explained that inflammation or infection in the nose, throat, or mouth can make swallowing difficult. This causes saliva to build up in the mouth and leak out during sleep.
He said young adults may experience drooling due to repeated sinus infections or chronic tonsillitis. He also pointed out that tumours in the salivary glands, such as the parotid, submandibular, or sublingual glands, can also be responsible.
To reduce the risk of drooling during sleep, Prof Ibekwe advised people to eat dinner at least three hours before bedtime, maintain good oral hygiene, and avoid alcohol or late-night drinks like tea or coffee.
He explained, “Late-night meals can cause acid reflux, which is a known cause of sialorrhoea. If possible, take a light walk after eating, brush your teeth regularly, and see your dentist and ENT specialist when needed. Also, keep a healthy weight and exercise often.”
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Meanwhile, Dr Abass Ajayi, a Senior Registrar in Neurosurgery at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital in Zaria, warned that in some cases, drooling may be caused by nerve problems.
Dr Ajayi said, “There’s a difference between someone who drools lightly during sleep and someone experiencing it due to a neurological issue. In serious cases, drooling happens because the nerves responsible for swallowing are not working properly. When this happens, saliva doesn’t get swallowed normally and ends up leaking out.”
He urged anyone who experiences constant drooling, especially with other unusual symptoms, to see a doctor for a full check-up.