Do you keep waking up with a wet spot on your pillow? Drooling is a common occurrence, but it can also be a sign of an underlying problem. 30 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea; however, 80% of cases aren’t diagnosed. Contrary to what you might have heard, snoring isn’t the only symptom of the condition. Drooling can be a side effect of untreated sleep apnea, too. A soggy pillow isn’t the only thing you’ll need to worry about. With no treatment, sleep apnea can have life-threatening consequences.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most prevalent form of the condition. It causes you to stop breathing potentially hundreds of times per night. The soft tissues in the back of your mouth and throat relax when you drift off to sleep, which can collapse and create an obstruction. This can lead to frequent breathing disruptions, interrupting your sleep quality and depleting your body of oxygen with each event.
How is Drooling Connected?
Snoring is the most noticeable symptom of sleep apnea. As air passes over the tissues in the back of your mouth, it creates vibrations. Everyone snores occasionally, especially when battling a cold. However, if it’s an ongoing problem, it can be related to sleep apnea.
If you snore often, you’re also breathing through your mouth. As a result, saliva will pool in your mouth until it leaks out through your lips. Although snoring, drooling, and sleep apnea may be separate issues, they can all go hand in hand.
Drooling Isn’t the Only Concern
Untreated OSA affects your mental and physical health. Every time you stop breathing, it jolts your brain awake, even if you’re not aware of the brief interruptions. You won’t get adequate rest, which can lead to sleep deprivation and increases your risk of auto accidents. It’s not uncommon to experience mood changes, depression, memory loss, and declining cognitive abilities.
As you fight through fatigue, your body will also pay the price from frequent low oxygen. It strains your body, increasing your risk of heart attacks, strokes, and many other serious medical issues.
Stop Drooling and Breathe Better
If you have mild-to-moderate obstructive sleep apnea, you may be a candidate for an oral appliance. The custom-fit device positions your jaw to keep your airway open. It’s a comfortable and effective solution to help you breathe better. While you may drool more as your body gets used to the device, it will soon improve and you’ll sleep peacefully.
About Dr. Joseph Salvaggio
Dr. Salvaggio earned his dental degree from the University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry in 1998. He has regularly continued his training to provide the most advanced services, like dental implants and sleep apnea therapy. He is committed to helping each patient look and feel their best. Request an appointment through his website or call (289) 569-0721.