Mucus in saliva, leading to a "thick" or "sticky" feeling in your mouth, is often caused by dehydration, smoking, or chronic allergies.
Here's a breakdown of common causes:
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Dehydration: When you don't drink enough water, your body produces less saliva, and what is produced becomes more concentrated and mucus-filled.
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Smoking: Smoking irritates the mouth and throat, leading to increased mucus production as a protective response.
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Chronic Allergies: Allergies can cause postnasal drip, where mucus drains down the back of your throat and mixes with saliva.
Other potential causes include:
- Certain Medications: Some medications can cause dry mouth, which can lead to thicker saliva.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as Sjögren's syndrome, can affect saliva production and consistency.
- Infections: Respiratory infections can increase mucus production, which may mix with saliva.
- Mouth breathing: Breathing through your mouth, especially while sleeping, can dry out your mouth and thicken saliva.
How to address mucus saliva:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Quit Smoking: If you smoke, quitting can improve saliva quality.
- Manage Allergies: Treat your allergies with antihistamines or other appropriate medications.
- Consult a Healthcare Provider: If thick saliva persists, consult your healthcare provider to rule out underlying medical conditions.
