Drooling is a wellknown problem in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). The aim of this study was to investigate the severity
and consequences of drooling in PD. A comprehensive drooling questionnaire was sent to 105 PD outpatients, who had volunteered
drooling during a previous questionnaire (n = 216). Among 63 patients who responded and confirmed drooling, 27% experienced
severe saliva loss. Social and emotional consequences were reported by 17% to 77% of patients, and significantly more often
by those with severe drooling. We conclude that drooling is a frequent, disabling and apparently undertreated symptom of PD.
History taking ought to be detailed and specific to understand the full impact of drooling for an individual patient. Therapeutic
options should be evaluated more intensively.
Key words
Parkinson’s disease - drooling - severity - quality of life - survey