Drooling
Drooling
Drooling (/ˈdruːlɪŋ/), also known as sialorrhea or ptyalism, is the involuntary flow of saliva outside the mouth. It is a common phenomenon in infants and toddlers, but can also occur in adults due to various medical conditions or certain medications.
Etymology
The term "drooling" originates from the Old English word "drēolan", which means to let saliva flow from the mouth. The medical term "sialorrhea" is derived from the Greek words "sialon" (saliva) and "rhoia" (flow).
Causes
Drooling can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Excessive saliva production: This can be due to certain medical conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or the use of certain medications.
- Difficulty swallowing: Conditions that affect the muscles involved in swallowing, such as Parkinson's disease, can lead to drooling.
- Poor mouth and tongue control: This is often the cause of drooling in infants and toddlers, who have not yet fully developed these skills.
Treatment
Treatment for drooling depends on the underlying cause. It may include:
- Speech therapy: This can help improve mouth and tongue control.
- Medication: Certain medications can reduce saliva production.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be performed to redirect the salivary ducts or remove the salivary glands.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Drooling
- Wikipedia's article - Drooling
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