Here are some common reasons why you might drool while you sleep — and what they could mean:Your sleeping position plays a big role. Lying on your side or stomach can cause saliva to pool and escape more easily from your mouth.If you’re congested due to a cold, allergies, or a sinus infection, you may breathe through your mouth at night, which often leads to drooling.

Conditions like acid reflux or GERD can cause your body to produce more saliva to counteract stomach acid, making nighttime drooling more likely.Sleep disorders like sleep apnea often cause people to sleep with their mouths open, which can result in drooling.Infections such as tonsillitis or a sore throat can make swallowing painful, allowing saliva to build up and leak out.

Certain neurological conditions, including Parkinson’s disease, strokes, or cerebral palsy, may affect muscle control needed for swallowing, leading to drool.Some medications can either increase saliva production or interfere with your ability to swallow normally, both of which can contribute to drooling.Allergic reactions can trigger increased mucus and saliva, particularly when your body is inflamed or congested, making nighttime drool more common.Issues related to GERD, like trouble swallowing (dysphagia), can also cause saliva to accumulate in the mouth during sleep.Finally, dental problems such as poor oral hygiene or misaligned teeth may affect how your mouth holds and clears saliva, resulting in drooling as you sleep.