Q: Please, how can I control my mouth saliva?

A: Ordinarily, we are all able to control the saliva in our mouths despite the enormous amounts produced daily. This is because we swallow it as needed unconsciously.

So, if you become aware of the need to consciously control the saliva in our mouths, then it could be that the production of saliva has increased or that you have a problem with swallowing.
Some causes of increased salivation include pregnancy, throat or mouth infections, some drugs and when new dentures are inserted.

Some causes of difficulty with swallowing include allergies, sinusitis and is also found in people who have Down’s syndrome.
Treatment is usually focused on the cause. So, if you’re not pregnant (:D), you might want to see a doctor to confirm a diagnosis and institute treatment.

And remember, pregnancy or any other condition that might be responsible for excessive salivation is not an excuse to spit all over the place. It just makes everywhere so much more disgusting and trust me! People don’t really want to stay around someone who’s going to ’emit’ saliva every few seconds. If you’ve got to spit, please use a toilet and be sure to clean up all traces of ‘your business’ 😀 Eating dry crackers, smaller meals or chewing gum may be helpful. Others have suggested drinking water, brushing often or using mouthwash to gargle. Well, different strokes for different folks. I found the last three suggestions to actually trigger salivation and worse still, vomiting in me when I was pregnant.

I know that someone is likely to ask me about clay (Nzu in Ibo). Please note that a desire to eat clay is indicative of iron deficiency. So, even if it helps you control salivation, please see your doctor as it could a sign of a problem.

Have an awesome week ahead, people 😀

Here’s to a healthier you!