6. Drooling: A Subtle Yet Significant Symptom
Drooling, or excessive salivation, is another common yet often overlooked symptom of pseudobulbar palsy. This issue occurs due to the weakened control of the muscles involved in swallowing, leading to an inability to manage saliva effectively.
The causes of drooling in pseudobulbar palsy can be twofold. The primary reason is the impaired ability to swallow due to weakened throat and mouth muscles. This leads to saliva accumulation in the mouth. Additionally, there could be an actual increase in saliva production, exacerbating the issue.
While it might seem like a minor inconvenience, drooling can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. It can lead to skin irritation around the mouth, bad breath, and an increased risk of aspiration. Additionally, the social embarrassment associated with drooling can result in diminished self-confidence and social withdrawal.(6)
