Drooling during sleep is common and usually harmless. It happens when saliva isn’t swallowed and instead leaks out — often due to side or stomach sleeping. Common causes include **mouth breathing**, **deep sleep**, certain **medications**, or **sinus issues**. As the article says, *”drooling is actually pretty common and usually nothing to worry about.”*

However, frequent or excessive drooling, especially with **choking**, **fatigue**, or **morning bad breath**, may signal sleep apnea or another condition — and should be checked by a doctor.

**Culturally**, drooling can be seen as embarrassing, funny, or even a sign of deep rest. Some cultures view it as a “symbol of deep sleep,” while others see it as impolite or taboo.

**Psychologically**, it may represent vulnerability, longing (“mouth-watering”), or emotional safety, especially in family or intimate settings.

**In media**, drooling is used comedically or, in horror genres, as a disturbing symptom (e.g., possession or illness). It also appears in language like *“drooling over a new car.”*

**Socially**, drooling may feel awkward in shared spaces like planes or dorms. But in babies or pets, it’s often seen as cute, reinforcing emotional bonds.