Why is there excessive saliva in the mouth?

Generally, excessive saliva in the mouth may be caused by food stimulation, emotional fluctuations, gastroesophageal reflux, gingivitis, hyperthyroidism, and other factors. Symptomatic management through general treatments, medications, and other methods may be necessary. If discomfort persists, timely medical consultation is recommended for appropriate treatment under a physician's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Food Stimulation

During meals, especially when consuming strongly flavored or sweet and sour foods, the salivary glands are stimulated to secrete more saliva. This is usually accompanied by normal eating behavior and no other discomfort. No specific treatment is required, as this is a normal physiological response.

2. Emotional Fluctuations

When emotionally excited, nervous, or stimulated, the body releases hormones such as adrenaline, which can stimulate the salivary glands to produce more saliva. This may be accompanied by other stress responses, such as increased heart rate and excessive hand sweating. It is recommended to learn relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, which can help reduce the impact of emotional fluctuations on saliva secretion.

3. Gastroesophageal Reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux mainly results from dysfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter and excessive gastric acid secretion, causing stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus and mouth, stimulating the salivary glands to secrete more saliva to neutralize acidic substances. Symptoms often include chest pain, sore throat, and cough. It is recommended to use medications such as rabeprazole sodium enteric-coated tablets, lansoprazole tablets, or omeprazole enteric-coated tablets under medical guidance to reduce gastric acid secretion.

4. Gingivitis

Inflammation of the gums can cause local tissue swelling and pain, thereby stimulating the salivary glands to secrete more saliva to rinse and lubricate the mouth and relieve discomfort. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, pain, and bleeding of the gums. It is recommended to use medications such as metronidazole tablets, cefixime capsules, or ibuprofen sustained-release capsules under medical guidance for treatment.

5. Hyperthyroidism

Autoimmune disorders, genetic factors, environmental influences, and other factors may lead to hyperthyroidism. In a hyperthyroid state, the body's metabolic rate increases, including the metabolic activity of the salivary glands, which may result in increased saliva secretion. Symptoms may include weight loss, palpitations, sweating, and irritability. It is recommended to follow medical advice to use antithyroid medications, such as methimazole tablets or propylthiouracil tablets, to inhibit the synthesis and secretion of thyroid hormones.

In daily life, maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding irritant foods may also help alleviate discomfort symptoms.