Consistency is one of the characteristics of salivary fluid in the mouth, which few people think about for no reason. Most often, a person learns that it can change when the metabolism in his body is disrupted. However, saliva in the mouth can become viscous and sticky for a variety of reasons, and the treatment of the defect directly depends on what exactly was the prerequisite for its development.
Saliva is normal
The salivary glands of a healthy adult produce from one to two liters of secretion every day. The purpose of this liquid is to lubricate the oral cavity to facilitate chewing and speaking. Thanks to the secretion, the digestion of food begins at the moment of chewing it, since saliva contains active enzymes. The perception of the taste of foods also depends on the degree of their processing by salivary fluid.
Saliva is the first most accessible natural antiseptic. This is why small wounds in the mouth heal much faster than on the skin.
In order for all these processes to proceed exactly as needed, salivation must be sufficient, and the discharge itself must be transparent or slightly cloudy, liquid and imperceptible to humans. A violation of the usual consistency of saliva cannot be ignored, as an obsessive feeling of discomfort is created, speech and the usual rhythm of life are disrupted, and problems with digestion, teeth and oral mucous membranes are possible.
Brief physiology of salivation and pathogenesis of its disorders
The participation of sympathetic and parasympathetic innervation in the regulation of salivation varies; the leading role belongs to parasympathetic mechanisms. Segmental parasympathetic innervation is represented in the trunk by secretory salivary nuclei (n. salivate rius sup. et inf.).
From the brain stem, parasympathetic fibers go as part of the VII and IX glossopharyngeal nerve, synaptically interrupting in the submandibular and auricular ganglion, respectively. The submandibular and sublingual salivary glands receive postganglionic fibers from the submandibular ganglion, and the parotid glands receive postganglionic fibers from the auricular ganglion. Sympathetic postganglionic fibers come from the superior cervical ganglion and end in the vessels and secretory cells of the submandibular salivary glands only.
The sympathetic and parasympathetic innervation of the salivary glands does not have a reciprocal relationship, that is, peripheral sympathetic activation does not cause peripheral suppression of secretion. Any suppression of secretion, for example during stress, is mediated by central inhibitory influences by reducing the activation of efferent pathways. Afferent fibers are part of the nerves innervating the masticatory muscles and taste fibers. Normally, reflex secretion of saliva occurs when parasympathetic impulses predominate, which causes increased salivary secretion and vasodilation as part of the secretory process. The mediators at the endings of the parasympathetic nerves are acetylcholine, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) and substance P. The effect of sympathetic activation is carried out through the mediator norepinephrine, while fluid mobilization does not occur, but the protein composition of saliva changes by increasing exocytosis from certain cells. Sympathetic fibers terminate mainly in those cells that receive parasympathetic innervation, which provides a synergistic effect. Although some sympathetic fibers regulate vascular tone, it is largely dependent on independent central control and is not directly involved in reflex secretory mechanisms.
The reflex activity of the salivary glands can change if any part of the reflex is disrupted (afferent, central or efferent parts), as well as if the effector organ is damaged.
Insufficient afferentation from the masticatory muscles explains xerostomia in old age and that occurs with a long-term gentle diet. In severe cases, atrophy of the salivary glands is possible.
Reflex salivation is under complex control of higher parts of the brain, the influence of which is realized, in particular, in changes in saliva secretion depending on the functional state of the brain in the sleep-wake cycle. An example of suprasegmental effects on salivary function can also be psychogenic hypo- and hypersalivation, unilateral suppression of secretion in hemispheric tumors, the central effect of antihypertensive drugs, anorexigenic drugs.
Damage to the efferent autonomic pathways explains xerostomia in the syndrome of progressive autonomic failure; Similarly, dry mouth is caused by pharmacological denervation with anticholinergics. Damage to the effector organ, i.e., the salivary glands, is responsible for dry mouth in Sjogren's syndrome and post-radiation xerostomia. Dry mouth in diabetes mellitus is associated with a decrease in the secretion of the liquid part of saliva due to plasma hyperosmolarity, as well as due to polyuria.
Drooling is possible not only when saliva secretion increases, but also when its normal outflow is disrupted. Thus, incoordination of the oral muscles causes drooling in children with cerebral palsy; subclinical swallowing disorders due to increased tone of the aximal muscles can lead to sialorrhea in parkinsonism (in this disease, however, another mechanism is possible - activation of central cholinergic mechanisms); in patients with boulevard syndrome, salivation is caused by a violation of the reflex act of swallowing.
What should you be wary of?
Typically, patients' complaints are related to the fact that in the morning their saliva is not as usual: thick, sticky or foamy. In such cases, accompanying symptoms may occur:
- violation of taste perception;
- constant dry mouth and throat;
- feeling of persistent thirst;
- tingling sensation on the tongue;
- difficulty and pain when chewing and swallowing food;
- sore throat and hoarseness;
- cracks on the lips;
- rapid formation of plaque on teeth;
- inflammatory processes in the oral cavity and gums.
All these phenomena may be a consequence of changes in the composition, quantity and viscosity of saliva. A simple test that you can take yourself in the morning on an empty stomach will help you verify the validity of such suspicions or dispel them. To do this, you need to get a pipette with marked divisions and a stopwatch.
First, you need to put a milliliter of ordinary water into a pipette and observe how long it takes for it to flow out. Then you need to do the same with the salivary fluid. It remains to compare the two indicators - normally, they should be approximately the same.
But self-examination is a subjective thing, therefore, if there is any suspicion of a serious malfunction in the body, you should contact specialists to conduct accurate laboratory tests. Doctors determine whether the consistency of saliva is normal using a viscometer. If he confirms that the patient really has too thick saliva in his mouth, the doctor will determine the cause of the defect and prescribe the necessary treatment. Diagnosis will require additional tests and consultations with specialists, so self-medication in such a situation is unacceptable.
Diagnostics
A patient with complaints of viscous sputum undergoes a comprehensive examination by a pulmonologist. Valuable information is provided by physical examination methods: palpation (chest pain), percussion (local zones of dullness, box sound), auscultation (moist rales of various sizes, weakened breathing, bronchophony). The diagnostic plan includes the following laboratory and instrumental methods:
- Radiography.
A standard X-ray of the chest cavity is performed to detect local pathology—foci of infiltration or decay of lung tissue, signs of developmental anomalies. Additionally, fluoroscopy is performed. To examine the structure of the chest organs in detail, a computed tomography scan is needed. - Spirometry.
A study of pulmonary function shows a decrease in FEV1, signs of obstructive or restrictive respiratory disorders. To differentiate between COPD and bronchial asthma, a test with salbutamol is performed, based on the results of which the degree of reversibility of obstruction is assessed. - Invasive research.
Bronchoscopy is performed to examine the inner surface of the bronchi, identify signs of inflammation, and take mucus samples. To assess the structure of the bronchial tree and diagnose chronic bronchitis and bronchiectasis, bronchography is done with a contrast agent. - Sputum analysis.
Under microscopy, mucus contains a large number of neutrophils (in infectious inflammation), Charcot-Leyden crystals and Kurshman spirals (in bronchial asthma). To clarify the etiology of the pathological process, bacteriological culture of the resulting secretion is performed. - Additional laboratory methods.
Typical deviations in the hemogram: leukocytosis with a shift to the left in bacterial infections, lymphocytosis in viral pathogens, eosinophilia in allergic lung diseases. In blood biochemistry, acute phase indicators and IgE levels are determined. Sometimes an extended immunogram is prescribed.
When auscultating the lungs, moist rales of various sizes are heard
Why is saliva viscous and stringy?
A symptom such as thick drool often causes dehydration due to insufficient fluid intake and intoxication , accompanied by vomiting and diarrhea. In addition, the cause of thick saliva may lie in the side effects of medications. Diuretics and choleretic drugs, antihistamines and antidepressants, as well as a number of painkillers, radiation and chemotherapy can cause malfunction of the salivary glands. In these cases, stopping or replacing the drug is enough to solve the problem.
Experienced smokers often experience dry mouth mucous membranes, which is accompanied by the appearance of viscous, sticky saliva. For some, such a violation accompanies them until they completely give up the bad habit.
The cause of viscous or foamy saliva may be a natural hormonal imbalance that occurs during pregnancy, menopause, or adolescence in adolescents. No drug therapy is required in these cases.
Mumps
When the root of the problem lies in internal diseases, it can be very difficult to determine the true cause. Some diseases directly complicate the work of the salivary glands : with mumps, Mikulicz's disease and sialostasis, the glands enlarge and become painful, secretion production is significantly reduced, and salivary stone disease and neoplasms can even lead to their surgical removal. In any of these cases, the saliva may take on an unusual consistency. Cystic fibrosis, scleroderma, Sjogren's syndrome, HIV, retinol deficiency, and anemia can also manifest themselves in a similar way.
The reason for the appearance of unusually thick and viscous saliva in the mouth can also be an injury that causes rupture of the ducts or gland tissue. In this case, you will need the help of a surgeon. Various internal diseases can affect the functioning of the salivary glands and the properties of their secretions:
- neurological;
- hormonal;
- gastrointestinal;
- autoimmune;
- rheumatoid;
- psychosomatic.
Dryness and stickiness in the mouth, accompanied by a decrease or complete absence of saliva and resulting from deep internal pathologies, is called xerostomia. Associated symptoms of the disease are redness of the tongue, cracks and jams on the lips, soreness in the mouth and throat. Xerostomia develops progressively, depending on the cause, the pathology can be temporary or permanent - both require timely treatment under the supervision of a doctor.
Sticky mucus can look and feel different. Thick sputum is white, foamy, thick, viscous, and can create a feeling of a “lump in the throat.”
Treatment
Help before diagnosis
To improve the discharge of viscous sputum, the postural drainage method is used: patting and tapping on the chest, being in a position with the head end down. Patients in satisfactory condition are recommended dosed physical activity. Special breathing exercises work effectively. Thick sputum production is a symptom of serious illness, so you should consult a doctor.
Conservative therapy
The main drugs for eliminating viscous sputum are mucolytics. Medicines consist of proteolytic enzymes and other active substances that thin bronchial mucus, improve expectoration, and eliminate congestion. To increase the effectiveness of mucolytics, they are combined with secretomotor drugs, which increase the volume of mucous secretions and accelerate their elimination. For etiopathogenetic purposes, therapy is also used:
- Antibiotics
. Prescribed for prolonged pneumonia, aggravated chronic bronchitis and bronchiectasis. They are selected taking into account the antibiogram. As a rule, a combination of 3-4 drugs intended for long-term use is selected in the treatment regimen for tuberculosis. - Bronchodilators
. Medicines from the group of beta-2 agonists and M-anticholinergics expand the lumen of the airways and improve the removal of viscous sputum. They eliminate the phenomena of shortness of breath and obstruction, and are effective for providing emergency assistance during an attack of suffocation. - Anti-inflammatory drugs
. Mild forms of pulmonary diseases respond well to treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Inhaled corticosteroids are also used, which relieve swelling of the bronchi and reduce mucus production. For long-term therapy, those suffering from bronchial asthma are prescribed sodium cromoglycate. - Antiallergic drugs
. Tablet forms are used: antihistamines, leukotriene receptor inhibitors. For atopic bronchial asthma in the period of remission, allergen-specific immunotherapy is performed.
Physiotherapeutic techniques are effective for liquefying viscous sputum: inhalations with alkaline solutions and medications, vibration massage of the chest, electrophoresis. Patients are recommended to take exercise therapy and regular breathing exercises. For chronic respiratory diseases, courses of speleotherapy and sanatorium-resort treatment are indicated.
White saliva
Thrush in the mouth
The cause of the appearance of thick white saliva should be sought in fungal infections of the oral cavity and nasopharynx. Most often, this pathology is observed with candidiasis, known as stomatitis or thrush. It usually develops in children, but sometimes appears in adults.
The salivary fluid is colored white by deposits in the form of a cheesy coating characteristic of this infection, which cover the mucous membranes of the mouth. To get rid of the disease, local and internal antifungal drugs are used to strengthen the immune system.
Diagnosing Excessive Mucus Production
When the first signs of excessive mucus formation in the throat appear, you need to pay close attention to its consistency. Sticky dark-colored formations indicate a serious illness. Making an accurate diagnosis is the key to effective treatment
Making an accurate diagnosis is the key to effective treatment.
• A thorough analysis of the patient's complaints and a general examination of the neck, lymph nodes, thyroid gland, and abdomen.
• Pharyngoscopy. Visual examination of the mucous membrane of the throat does not require special preparation of the patient or the use of complex equipment.
• Laryngoscopy. Before the procedure, it is recommended to refrain from eating and drinking to reduce the manifestations of the gag reflex.
• Biochemical and general blood test.
• To exclude pathologies of the paranasal sinuses, radiography may be required.
• Bacterial analysis of sputum.
In some cases, to make an accurate diagnosis, consultation with a gastroenterologist, neurologist, or endocrinologist is required.
Causes of sticky saliva in the throat
Saliva can not only foam, but also seem to get stuck in the throat. In this case, it is necessary to examine an ENT doctor for damage to the tonsils and larynx. Purulent forms of tonsillitis or tonsillitis are accompanied by the appearance of plaques on the tonsils, which create discomfort and pain, and when opened, they release purulent contents into the pharynx, increasing the saturation of sputum.
Gum disease accompanied by the discharge of pus may also be an explanation for why saliva has become thick, viscous and felt in the throat. Such diseases include periodontitis, periodontal disease, cysts, cellulitis and abscesses. Sticky pus from the affected areas of the gums mixes with saliva and makes swallowing difficult.
Candidal stomatitis
What disease can cause dry mouth? This condition is characterized by a white coating on the tongue and mouth. Accompanied by viscous and viscous saliva. Most often, this pathology is diagnosed in children and elderly people over 60 years of age.
The causes of candidal stomatitis are:
- decreased immunity;
- xerostomia;
- pregnancy;
- diabetes;
- changes in hormonal levels;
- bacterial inflammation in the body;
- violation of oral hygiene rules;
- taking antibiotics.
The disease can be diagnosed by symptoms such as sore throat, viscosity of saliva, unpleasant metallic taste in the mouth, white coating, burning sensation on the tongue. Most often, candidal stomatitis appears due to a decrease in the strength of the immune system.
How to relieve the condition when saliva is viscous and stringy
A person whose saliva thickens and foams experiences a lot of unpleasant sensations. In addition to discomfort, outbreaks of diseases of the throat, tongue, and gums may become more frequent, and teeth become more vulnerable to caries. Therefore, this symptom must be eliminated using conservative and traditional methods of treatment.
Having determined why the saliva in the patient’s mouth has become thick and viscous, the doctor will prescribe treatment for the underlying disease that caused xerostomia, as well as auxiliary local methods that will help quickly return to normal life:
- artificial saliva;
- various oral moisturizers in an easy-to-use form (gel or spray);
- specialized rinses;
- special chewing gum and lollipops;
- drinking plenty of fluids.
Folk remedies for the treatment of xerostomia include sage or fenugreek tea, lubrication of the oral cavity with a mixture of peach oil and propolis, and inhalations with eucalyptus. But it is better to discuss these treatment methods with your doctor.
It would not be superfluous to purchase an air humidifier for the room and give up tobacco, alcohol, soda and coffee, which additionally dehydrate the mucous membranes. The consumption of dairy products will also have to be minimized. The daily volume of clean water consumption should be at least one and a half liters. During this period, it is better to choose a toothbrush with soft bristles so as not to injure dehydrated gum tissue.
Don't wait until unusual sensations in your mouth develop into unbearable ones. The viscosity of saliva is one of the serious indicators of the health of the body. If it deviates from the norm, action must be taken.
Paradontosis
With periodontal disease, sticky saliva may appear. Damage to the tissues near the teeth is accompanied by pain, fever and other symptoms, and this also affects the consistency of the salivary fluid, it becomes viscous and sticky. In patients with this pathology, chewing function is impaired and the gums begin to bleed.
If periodontosis is not treated, the process penetrates into deep tissues, which can cause inflammation. The resulting plaque and tartar cause loosening and tooth loss.
The disease is accompanied by mobility of teeth, itching and discomfort in the gums
Causes of increased salivation at night in adults
During sleep, processes in the body go slower, including the secretion of saliva. But glitches may occur. Here are the main factors that cause too much saliva to be produced during sleep:
● breathing through the mouth, not through the nose - often happens when a person sleeps on his back;
● malocclusion – the mouth remains open during sleep, the tongue dries out and the body decides that more saliva is needed;
● poor sleep - too much sleep when a person is not sure that he is sleeping. This can lead to the body considering the dream as reality and secreting saliva as if during the day.
This is what an open bite looks like - the tongue protrudes forward
