Why does a child with depression drool or leak water while drinking?
Nov 20, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
In general, children with depression who experience water leakage while drinking may be affected by medication side effects impacting swallowing, poor swallowing coordination due to low mood, oral mucosal inflammation, swallowing dysfunction, or early signs of stroke. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. In daily care, provide the child with water at a comfortable temperature and use a cup with a straw to assist with drinking.
In general, children with depression may experience water leakage from the mouth while drinking due to side effects of medication affecting swallowing, poor swallowing coordination caused by low mood, oral mucosal inflammation, swallowing dysfunction, or warning signs of stroke. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Medication side effects affecting swallowing: Some antidepressants may cause dry mouth or relaxation of throat muscles, impairing the coordination of swallowing movements and leading to water leakage. Inform the doctor promptly so that the dosage or type of medication can be adjusted. Drink plenty of warm water during treatment, and slow down when eating or drinking—take small sips and swallow slowly.
2. Poor swallowing coordination due to low mood: In severe depression, children may appear lethargic and have difficulty concentrating, resulting in delayed swallowing reflexes and reduced control over oral muscles. Parents should provide companionship and encouragement, create a relaxed mealtime environment, and consider playing soft music to divert the child’s attention and help them focus on the act of swallowing.
3. Oral mucosal inflammation: Depression may reduce immune function, leading to conditions such as stomatitis or gingivitis. Pain may prevent the child from fully closing their mouth, causing leakage. Follow medical advice to use medications such as Xihuangshuang spray, Kangfuxin liquid, or compound chlorhexidine mouthwash.
4. Swallowing dysfunction: Prolonged depression may affect the nervous system's control over swallowing muscles, resulting in weakened swallowing function, possibly accompanied by coughing during meals. Use neurotrophic drugs such as mecobalamin tablets, vitamin B1 tablets, or citicoline sodium capsules as directed by a physician.
5. Warning signs of stroke: In rare cases, when depression is accompanied by cerebrovascular issues, abnormal cerebral blood flow may affect the swallowing center, causing water leakage along with symptoms like limb numbness and slurred speech. Seek immediate medical care. Follow medical instructions for medications such as enteric-coated aspirin tablets, clopidogrel hydrogen sulfate tablets, or atorvastatin calcium tablets. In severe cases, decompressive craniectomy may be required to relieve brain tissue pressure.
In daily life, provide children with water at a comfortable temperature and use cups with straws to assist drinking. Focus on soft, easily swallowed foods, avoiding those that are too thin or too dry. Closely monitor the child’s emotional changes and physical responses.
