Causes of drooling while sleeping

1. Adjust Sleeping Position: As you mentioned, consciously trying to sleep on your back is the most effective positional change. Using a specialized pillow or even sewing a pocket for a tennis ball on the back of a pajama shirt can help train the body to avoid side-sleeping.

2. Treat Nasal Congestion: Use a saline rinse, a humidifier, or an over-the-counter decongestant (as advised by a doctor) before bed to ensure clear nasal passages.

3. Improve Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing thoroughly, and using an alcohol-free mouthwash, can reduce inflammation and bacteria in the mouth that might be overstimulating saliva production.

4. Review Diet and Habits: Avoid large meals, spicy foods, and acidic drinks for at least 2-3 hours before bedtime.

5. Manage Stress and Sleep Hygiene: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing before bed to reduce stress, which can exacerbate both reflux and sleep disorders.

6. Stay Hydrated: Ironically, drinking enough water during the day can help produce thinner saliva, which is easier to swallow. Dehydration can lead to thicker saliva that is more prone to pooling and escaping.

7. Consult a Doctor: If the drooling is excessive, new, or accompanied by other symptoms (like heartburn, difficulty swallowing, or slurred speech), it’s crucial to see a doctor. They can check for underlying conditions like GERD, sleep apnea, infections, or neurological issues.

You are absolutely right that while usually harmless, persistent drooling is a signal worth paying attention to, as your body is trying to tell you something about your state of relaxation, your health, or both.