Heavy saliva can be caused by various factors such as medication, dental problems, Bell’s palsy, rabies, and common ailments like cold or sinusitis. Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can also cause excessive saliva, which usually resolves after delivery. A child who drools frequently will experience heavy saliva, as the secretions work to soothe sore gums. Although […]
A saliva ovulation test can help women determine when ovulation is about to occur by examining saliva for hormones that precede ovulation. It can improve chances of conception and can be used alone or with other home fertility testing methods. The test is accurate up to 98% of the time and is not recommended for […]
Blood in saliva can be caused by bacteria, trauma, cancer, and medications. Bacteria can lead to infection and bleeding, while trauma can cause cuts and internal bleeding. Cancer and cancer treatments can also lead to bloody saliva, as can certain medications, including narcotics. Unlike most other parts of the body, blood in saliva can occur […]
Saliva hormone tests are used to check hormone levels in saliva, but caution is advised as not all tests are equal and they are not designed for home diagnosis. Blood tests are considered more accurate. Saliva tests can be used for quick assessments and ongoing monitoring, but multiple tests may be needed. Saliva tests are […]
Marijuana’s active ingredient is THC, which can be detected through saliva, urine, blood, and hair follicle tests. Penalties for possession vary by state, and drug testing is required for employment, probation, and rehab programs. THC can build up in the body, making it more detectable in heavy or long-term users. Marijuana is a plant that […]
Saliva swapping occurs when one person’s saliva is transferred to another, either directly through kissing or indirectly through objects. Saliva can carry viruses and bacteria, leading to the transmission of infections. Bacteria in the mouth can also be transferred through saliva, potentially causing serious problems. Diseases like mononucleosis and strep throat can be transmitted through […]
Nicotine saliva tests can detect nicotine or its byproducts in saliva, with over-the-counter tests available for home use. They can be used to verify patient compliance before surgery, track progress in quitting smoking, and study the effects of secondhand smoke. Results can vary between test types or brands. A nicotine saliva test is a laboratory […]
Saliva rash is a type of contact dermatitis that occurs in children due to alkaline saliva and digestive enzymes. It can be treated by washing the face regularly, using a bib, and applying mild topical medication or skin creams. In some cases, medical attention may be needed. A saliva rash is a form of contact […]
Alcohol saliva tests use a strip of material saturated with saliva to determine blood alcohol levels. They are reliable and accurate, easy to use, and can be purchased in boxes of 6 to 100. They are commonly used by employers, parents, and individuals to ensure safety and avoid dangerous situations. An alcohol saliva test is […]
Saliva odor is influenced by diet, health, and oral hygiene. Strongly scented foods, fatty and refined foods, poor oral hygiene, and oral diseases can cause bad breath. Lifestyle changes and medications can improve saliva odor. Factors that influence saliva odor generally have to do with diet, health, and oral hygiene. While the odor on your […]
HIV can only be transmitted through saliva if there are cofactors such as bleeding gums, infections, or a high viral load. The virus is found in low amounts in saliva, making it unlikely to spread through kissing or spitting. Oral sex carries a risk of transmission, but it is much lower than through vaginal or […]
Choking on saliva can be caused by excessive saliva production, throat and swallowing problems, and neurological disorders. Infrequent choking is usually not a concern, but frequent or intense episodes may require medical attention to find a solution. Dietary changes or medication may help with excessive saliva production, while throat injuries, tumors, and neurological diseases can […]
Increased saliva during pregnancy may be caused by hormonal changes and stomach acid symptoms. Hormonal fluctuations can cause temporary increases, while some women may just be more aware of their saliva. Gastrointestinal changes can also contribute, with heartburn causing the body to produce more saliva to reduce discomfort. Scientists aren’t sure of the exact causes […]
Hepatitis B and A can be transmitted through saliva, but Hepatitis C requires blood exchange. Hepatitis B is commonly spread through kissing and oral sex, while Hepatitis A is transmitted through contaminated food or fecal matter. Hepatitis C cannot be transmitted through saliva. Protective measures and limiting sexual contact can prevent the spread of these […]
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases, with over 36,000 cases reported annually in the United States. It is mainly transmitted through sexual contact and contact with syphilitic ulcers, but it is possible to transmit syphilis through saliva during […]
Saliva and taste are linked as saliva transports food molecules to taste buds. Saliva breaks down food structures and contains enzymes that dissolve complex chemicals. Saliva also plays a role in identifying food textures and can cause burning sensations when eating spicy foods. Abnormal saliva production or thickness can affect taste and smell. Saliva and […]
Acidic saliva can be caused by various factors such as certain foods, medications, vitamin deficiencies, dental problems, and an increase in bacteria in the mouth. Heartburn can also lead to a sour taste due to undigested food returning to the mouth. The problem is usually short-lived and resolves once the cause is no longer present. […]
Red saliva can be caused by bleeding gums due to gingivitis or pregnancy, or by red dyes in food. It should not be confused with red sputum, which can indicate internal bleeding. Any changes in saliva should be evaluated by a doctor or dentist. The salivary glands produce both stimulated and unstimulated salivary flow. Saliva […]
