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Parkinson’s: Tremors at rest, muscle rigidity, slow movement, reduced facial expression.
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Post-Stroke: Sudden weakness/numbness on one side, slurred speech, facial droop.
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Bell’s Palsy: Sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the face, difficulty closing one eye.
4. Sinus or Throat Infections (Tonsillitis, Strep Throat)
The Connection: Infections cause inflammation and pain in the throat. Swallowing becomes painful, so the body may subconsciously avoid it during sleep, leading to saliva pooling and drooling. A severely stuffy nose also forces mouth breathing.
Other Key Signs to Watch For:
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Severe sore throat, red/white patches on tonsils.
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Fever and swollen lymph nodes.
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Nasal congestion and post-nasal drip.
5. Side Effect of Certain Medications
The Connection: Some medications, particularly certain antipsychotics (e.g., clozapine), some antibiotics, and cholinesterase inhibitors used for Alzheimer’s, can increase saliva production as a side effect.
What to Do: Review your medication list with your doctor or pharmacist. Never stop taking prescribed medication without medical guidance.