Thick Saliva: Causes and Health Implications

Thick saliva?

About a year or two ago, during my dental cleaning, the dentist mentioned that my saliva was very thick and advised me to drink more water, but I didn't really notice anything at that time.
However, in the past few months, I've started to noticeably feel that my saliva has become very viscous, almost like phlegm, making it difficult to clear when I try to spit, and it tends to string together.
Could this indicate an undiagnosed illness or an issue with my oral health?

Zheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/12

Dr. Chen Bozhang reply Family Medicine

Dear user,
You mentioned that your saliva has become thick and stringy.
This condition falls under the broad category of xerostomia (dry mouth), which can have various causes, including medication side effects, underlying health conditions, or insufficient fluid intake.
These causes need to be evaluated by a professional physician for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
I recommend visiting the oral surgery outpatient department at a hospital to seek professional assistance from a physician.
This will help avoid relying on hearsay or various home remedies, which could delay the diagnosis of specific diseases and prevent complications such as periodontal disease, dental caries, or oral mucosal ulcers.
I hope this information is helpful to you.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Chen Po-Chang
Department of Family Medicine
Keelung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2015/09/12

More Info

Thick saliva, or viscous saliva, can be a concerning symptom for many individuals, especially when it becomes noticeable over time. It can be caused by a variety of factors, and understanding these can help in determining whether there is an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed.

One of the most common causes of thick saliva is dehydration. Saliva is primarily composed of water, and when the body is dehydrated, the saliva can become more concentrated and sticky. This can happen due to inadequate fluid intake, excessive sweating, or conditions that lead to fluid loss, such as fever or diarrhea. If you have been experiencing increased thirst, dry mouth, or other signs of dehydration, it may be beneficial to increase your water intake and monitor your symptoms.

Another potential cause of thick saliva is the use of certain medications. Many medications, including antihistamines, antidepressants, and some blood pressure medications, can lead to dry mouth (xerostomia), which in turn can cause saliva to become thicker. If you are taking any medications, it would be wise to consult with your healthcare provider to see if they could be contributing to your symptoms.

Additionally, certain medical conditions can lead to changes in saliva consistency. For example, conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome, which is an autoimmune disorder that affects the glands that produce saliva and tears, can lead to dry mouth and thick saliva. Other conditions like diabetes, cystic fibrosis, or even respiratory infections can also affect saliva production and consistency. If you have other symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, or changes in your overall health, it may be worth discussing these with your doctor.

Oral health issues can also play a role in the consistency of saliva. For instance, infections in the mouth, such as oral thrush or periodontal disease, can lead to changes in saliva. If you have noticed other symptoms like bad breath, gum bleeding, or pain in your mouth, it would be advisable to see a dentist for a thorough examination.

In your case, since you mentioned that your saliva has become noticeably thick and resembles phlegm, it is essential to consider both hydration and any potential underlying health issues. While it may not seem alarming at first, persistent changes in saliva consistency warrant further investigation. You might want to keep track of any other symptoms you experience, such as changes in taste, difficulty swallowing, or any discomfort in your mouth or throat.

To address your concerns, I recommend the following steps:
1. Increase Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day. Aim for at least 8 glasses, but adjust based on your activity level and climate.

2. Review Medications: If you are on any medications, consult with your healthcare provider to determine if they could be contributing to your symptoms.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a record of any additional symptoms you may experience, such as changes in appetite, weight loss, or fatigue.

4. Consult Healthcare Providers: If your symptoms persist or worsen, consider scheduling an appointment with your primary care physician or a dentist. They can perform a thorough evaluation and may refer you to a specialist if necessary.

5. Maintain Oral Hygiene: Continue to practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, and consider using a mouthwash designed for dry mouth if you feel it may help.

In summary, while thick saliva can be a benign issue related to hydration or medication, it can also indicate underlying health concerns. Monitoring your symptoms and consulting with healthcare professionals will provide the best path forward for your health and well-being.

Similar Q&A

Dealing with Thick Saliva and Denture Discomfort: Possible Causes and Solutions

I previously inquired about a heavy foreign body sensation in my mouth after getting dentures, as well as an increasing problem with thick saliva. I went to the hospital for a check-up to see if I had xerostomia, and the test results indicated that I was normal and did not have d...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: If you suspect that the issue is related to your dentures, it is advisable to wear them only when necessary. You can also check if the metal materials are precious metals, as they have high biocompatibility and are less likely to cause allergies. If you still feel discomfo...

Thick Saliva and Facial Swelling: Seeking Answers for Chronic Symptoms

Hello, doctor. My mother is 57 years old and has heart disease. She has been on a chronic prescription for a long time and also has osteoporosis, for which she takes calcium supplements provided by the hospital. She receives hyaluronic acid injections in her knees at regular inte...

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology
Based on your description, it is advisable to assess whether it is a salivary gland stone. When a stone completely obstructs the salivary gland, it will swell. If inflammation is treated and hydration is increased, the stone may partially dissolve, and if the salivary duct is not...

Thick Saliva and Foreign Sensation in the Esophagus: Causes and Solutions

Hello Doctor: My saliva has become very thick for the past six months, and I feel like there are always bubbles in my mouth, which is very uncomfortable and distressing. I can't help but tighten my mouth to avoid the bubbles, using my tongue in various ways to squeeze them o...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Based on the symptoms, it may be gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and you should consider visiting a gastroenterologist for an endoscopy.

Excessive Saliva Production: Causes, Effects, and Solutions

Doctor, does the amount of saliva secretion cause facial swelling? Can excessive saliva production have negative effects on the body? I'm about to take an important exam, but I keep producing a lot of saliva. Sometimes when I look down to read, there's a lot of saliva. ...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Excessive saliva production is not related to facial swelling. The feeling of excessive saliva may be associated with heightened anxiety and excessive attention to the issue. It is advisable to monitor the situation, and if there are concerns, a visit to an otolaryngologist for e...