"What Can Be Done to Address Drooling in Parkinsons Disease?"

Drooling in Parkinson's disease patients can be improved through general treatment, medication, and other methods. If the condition is severe, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Here are the main approaches:

1. General Treatment

Parkinson's disease, a common neurodegenerative disorder, can damage the brain's nerves during its course, affecting normal chewing and swallowing functions. As the disease progresses, excessive saliva production in the mouth may occur, which may not be expelled promptly, leading to drooling. To address this, consuming acidic foods and fruits such as hawthorns or lemon juice can stimulate salivary gland secretion, helping alleviate the issue. Additionally, maintaining a light diet, avoiding spicy, stimulating, or overly greasy foods, is recommended.

2. Medication

If general measures fail to effectively control the symptoms, dopamine receptor agonists like Trihexyphenidyl Hydrochloride Tablets or Levodopa Capsules can be prescribed under medical supervision. These can be supplemented with anticholinergic drugs like Amantadine Tablets for further improvement. In some cases, vitamin B6 tablets or Mecobalamin Dispersible Tablets, which nourish the nerves, may also be prescribed. Additionally, botulinum toxin injections can be considered.

3. Surgical Intervention

For patients with severe symptoms significantly impacting daily life or work abilities, surgical options like deep brain stimulation or stereotactic ablation may be necessary. Post-surgery, regular follow-ups are essential to monitor recovery progress. Besides, adopting proper self-care measures, including wearing masks when going out to prevent bacterial or viral infections, is advised. If discomfort persists, seeking medical attention promptly is crucial.