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Real members of MyMSTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Does anyone have a problem with drooling?

A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
Biddeford, ME

This started about 9 -12 months ago and is very frustrating. I wear an Aspen neck collar because of severe Spinal Stenosis in my neck (have worn it since 2008) and the drool gets on the chin pad and makes it look disgusting. I always have to make sure that I have a hanky with me to wipe my chin. When Covid first started I would drool just before coming down with it but I know that it hasn't been the reason since the last time I had it (have had it 4 times). I have PPM and was wondering if… read more

September 21
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Reactions
A MyMSTeam Member

@A MyMSTeam Member
Thank you for replying so quicky. ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

September 21
A MyMSTeam Member

I think I would get it only slightly while sleeping. Usually one side

Prayers sent.

September 21
A MyMSTeam Member

Look at the lovey face you created using the keyboard, @A MyMSTeam Member!

September 22
A MyMSTeam Member

I do. Today is one of the days where I’m struggling with it.

September 22
MyMSTeam

What a thoughtful and detailed question — and yes, drooling is something many MyMSTeam members with MS deal with, so you're definitely not alone in this!

Drooling in MS can happen for a few reasons:

- Swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) — nerve damage can interfere with the muscles involved in swallowing, causing saliva to Show Full Answer

What a thoughtful and detailed question — and yes, drooling is something many MyMSTeam members with MS deal with, so you're definitely not alone in this!

Drooling in MS can happen for a few reasons:

- Swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) — nerve damage can interfere with the muscles involved in swallowing, causing saliva to pool and spill
- Facial muscle weakness — MS can damage the nerve cells controlling cheek and lip muscles, making it harder to keep saliva in
- Certain medications can also contribute to drooling as a side effect With PPMS specifically, progressive nerve damage can make these symptoms more persistent over time, which may explain why this has developed for you recently.

Some management options worth discussing with your neurologist include:

- Upright posture with head raised to encourage automatic swallowing
- Swallowing therapy with a speech and language pathologist
- Medications like glycopyrrolate to reduce saliva production
- Botox injections to reduce saliva (though not FDA-approved for this use)

It's worth bringing this up with your neurology team soon, especially given how much it's affecting your daily comfort and confidence.

September 21

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