Advances in the study of Parkinson's disease-related salivation and associated mechanisms

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder primarily characterized by motor symptoms, including bradykinesia, rigidity, and resting tremor. PD is also accompanied by numerous non-motor symptoms, including sensory abnormalities, behavioral changes, sleep disturbances, and autonomic dysfunction such as orthostatic hypotension, bladder dysfunction and gastrointestinal dysfunction (including drooling, dysphagia and constipation). Drooling is one of the most common symptoms, negatively impacting oral health. It significantly affects physical well-being, psychological well-being, and quality of life for patients and their caregivers. This review aims to explore the mechanisms underlying drooling in PD, including its epidemiology, pathophysiology, and contributing factors. It also seeks to raise awareness and summarize current treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes.