Phantom Saliva Sensation: A Neurological Perspective

Q: Phantom Saliva Sensation: A Neurological Perspective

Hello： Your symptoms are more indicative of trigeminal neuralgia, particularly involving the third branch. <br>I recommend that you consult a neurologist for discussion and treatment. <br>Wishing you good health and peace. <br>Dr. <br>Jiang from Taoyuan Hospital cares about you.

The corners of my mouth often feel like they are drooling, but there is no saliva?

Hello: About two years ago, I occasionally felt saliva at the corner of my right mouth, and I would naturally suck it in.
Recently, the frequency of this sensation has increased.
I have been biting tissue and wiping, but there hasn't been any noticeable saliva.
When I scrape both sides of my cheeks with my finger, they feel slightly different.
In the past few days, my right cheek sometimes feels a bit swollen.
When I use a sharp object to poke both sides of my cheek, the sensation seems to be the same.
There is no noticeable swelling or inflammation inside or outside the corners of my mouth.

Mr. Su, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/02/10

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello: Your symptoms are more indicative of trigeminal neuralgia, particularly involving the third branch.
I recommend that you consult a neurologist for discussion and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang from Taoyuan Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2019/02/10

More Info

Phantom saliva sensation, particularly when localized to one side of the mouth, can be a perplexing symptom that may arise from various neurological or sensory processing issues. This phenomenon, where an individual perceives the presence of saliva without any actual secretion, can be linked to several underlying conditions.

Firstly, it is essential to consider the role of the nervous system in sensory perception. The sensation of saliva is typically mediated by the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensation in the face and motor functions such as biting and chewing. Any disruption or irritation of this nerve can lead to abnormal sensations, including phantom sensations. Conditions such as trigeminal neuralgia, which is characterized by sudden, severe facial pain, can sometimes present with atypical sensory experiences, including sensations of moisture or pressure.

Moreover, the phenomenon could also be related to a condition known as "paresthesia," which refers to abnormal sensations such as tingling, prickling, or a feeling of swelling in the absence of any physical cause. Paresthesia can occur due to nerve compression, inflammation, or damage, which may explain the feeling of swelling or pressure in the right cheek that you described. This could be due to various factors, including dental issues, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, or even postural issues that affect nerve pathways.

In your case, the increasing frequency of the phantom saliva sensation and the associated feelings of swelling or pressure on one side of the face warrant further investigation. It would be advisable to consult a neurologist or an oral and maxillofacial specialist who can perform a thorough clinical evaluation. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to rule out any structural abnormalities or nerve entrapments.

Additionally, it is crucial to consider psychological factors that may contribute to these sensations. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate sensory perceptions and may lead to heightened awareness of bodily sensations, including those that are phantom in nature. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or other forms of psychological support may be beneficial if stress is a contributing factor.

In terms of management, addressing any underlying dental or neurological issues is paramount. If a specific cause is identified, targeted treatment can be initiated. For instance, if TMJ dysfunction is diagnosed, treatments may include physical therapy, dental splints, or anti-inflammatory medications. If nerve irritation is suspected, medications such as gabapentin or pregabalin may be prescribed to help alleviate nerve-related symptoms.

In conclusion, while phantom saliva sensation can be an unusual and distressing experience, it is essential to approach it from a comprehensive neurological perspective. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional can help identify any underlying conditions and guide appropriate management strategies. If you continue to experience these sensations, do not hesitate to seek medical advice to ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly.

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