Excessive Salivation: Causes, Relief & When to See a Doctor

Question
Dear Dr. Boruki,
I have had type I diabetes for 20 years and have it under good control.  Just recently my brother told me that he has been swallowing a lot and it is from stress and is a mental problem.  After that I have had excess saliva in my mouth all the time.  I have to chew gum to stop it.  When I forget about it I am okay but when I think about it, it is terrible.  Is there something I can take?  Do you know if this could be mental or physical?

Thanks for your time!
Michele

Answer
I wonder why this has come up all of a sudden, after it was mentioned by your brother, and hasn't occurred before.... that is too much of a coincidence... so I think he has planted the idea in your head...... As long as your sugars are under good control, I don't think you have anything to worry about....