Excessive Saliva Production: Is Salivary Gland Removal the Solution?

Q: Excessive Saliva Production: Is Salivary Gland Removal the Solution?

Dear Inquirer： Hello, the condition you describe as "excessive saliva" seems a bit unusual. <br>It is difficult to ascertain your condition based solely on this description. <br>May I ask if you are experiencing any difficulty swallowing? Do you often have a sore throat? How is y

Excessive saliva production, inquiring about the possibility of salivary gland removal?

Hello, doctor.
I have had a problem with excessive saliva production since childhood, which has caused me to choke on saliva (I estimate this has happened over two thousand times).
I have difficulty sleeping on my side and cannot sleep on my stomach at all (as I wake up from being overwhelmed by the saliva).
When I speak, I often spray out a significant amount of saliva, which is quite bothersome.
I have tested this several times using a 100cc yogurt drink bottle, and I often produce over 100cc of saliva in under three minutes, rarely taking longer than five minutes.
Therefore, I am considering the partial removal of my salivary glands, primarily the sublingual glands.
I would like to ask the doctor: Is my saliva production indicative of a congenital hyperfunction of the salivary glands? Is this level of production suitable for partial salivary gland removal? Are there many hospitals in Taiwan that perform this type of surgery? Does health insurance cover it? If not, what would be the approximate cost? Will there be significant side effects after the removal of the salivary glands? Thank you!

jer, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/11/07

Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology

Dear Inquirer: Hello, the condition you describe as "excessive saliva" seems a bit unusual.
It is difficult to ascertain your condition based solely on this description.
May I ask if you are experiencing any difficulty swallowing? Do you often have a sore throat? How is your gastrointestinal function? This is a response from Dr.
Chen Chien-Chih, a physician at Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health, and a lecturer at Fu Jen Catholic University.

Reply Date: 2009/11/07

More Info

Excessive saliva production, also known as hypersalivation, can be a challenging condition that significantly impacts daily life. Your description of the symptoms, including frequent choking on saliva, difficulty sleeping in certain positions, and excessive drooling while speaking, suggests that this condition is indeed affecting your quality of life.
Hypersalivation can have various causes, including neurological disorders, medications, or even certain medical conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or oral infections. In some cases, it may be due to an overactive salivary gland, which could be congenital or acquired. The fact that you have experienced this issue since childhood raises the possibility of a developmental anomaly in your salivary glands.

Regarding the surgical option of salivary gland removal, particularly submandibular gland excision, it is essential to consider several factors. Surgical intervention is typically considered when conservative treatments, such as medications or behavioral modifications, have failed to provide relief. The decision to proceed with surgery should be made in consultation with an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist) or a maxillofacial surgeon who specializes in salivary gland disorders.

In terms of the appropriateness of surgery for your condition, a thorough evaluation is necessary. This evaluation may include imaging studies, such as ultrasound or MRI, to assess the size and function of your salivary glands. If it is determined that your salivary glands are indeed overactive and contributing to your symptoms, partial removal of the glands may be a viable option.

As for the availability of such procedures in Taiwan, many hospitals and medical centers offer salivary gland surgeries, especially in urban areas. It would be best to consult with a specialist who can provide you with information about the specific hospitals that perform these surgeries and whether they are covered by health insurance. In Taiwan, health insurance may cover certain surgical procedures, but this can vary based on the specific circumstances and the healthcare provider's assessment.

The cost of salivary gland removal surgery can vary widely depending on the hospital, the complexity of the procedure, and whether it is performed as an outpatient or inpatient procedure. It is advisable to discuss the potential costs with your healthcare provider and the hospital's billing department.

Regarding potential complications or side effects of salivary gland removal, while many patients experience relief from hypersalivation, there can be risks associated with the surgery. These may include dry mouth (xerostomia), changes in taste, and potential damage to surrounding structures, such as nerves. However, many patients find that the benefits of reduced saliva production outweigh these risks.

In conclusion, if you are considering surgery for excessive saliva production, it is crucial to consult with a qualified specialist who can evaluate your condition and discuss the potential benefits and risks of the procedure. They can also guide you on the best course of action, whether it be surgical intervention or alternative treatments, to help manage your symptoms effectively.

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