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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Could Foam Around Mouth Indicate?

A nephew s mother-in-law lovingly being cared for in their home. Woke with foam around her mouth - has not happened before. She sleeps a great deal with her mouth open. I suggested giving her purified water or unsalted organic chicken broth. Also suggested doing so by using a straw (finger on top and release method). She has dementia. Also a sore that is slow healing. Doctor said she should not sit up more than an hour at a time. Reading about what causes foam around the mouth has me deeply concerned.
Tue, 3 Feb 2015
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Geriatrics Specialist,  's  Response
Hi,
Thanks for asking.
Based on your query, my opinion is as follows.
1. Foam around mouth is usually seen in pulmonary edema.
2. However, increased salivation is much more common cause and when mixed with expiration of air, can produce foam around mouth.
3. Do get a chest x-ray done, if she has difficulty in breathing to rule out pulmonary edema. Also watch out for medications and possibility of aspiration of food or fluids during feeding.
4. Reducing salivation can be done through use of glycopyrrolate or amitriptyline. Need to watch for drug interactions and side effects. Caretaker support, round the clock is necessary.
Hope it helps.
Any further queries, happy to help again.
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What Could Foam Around Mouth Indicate?

Hi, Thanks for asking. Based on your query, my opinion is as follows. 1. Foam around mouth is usually seen in pulmonary edema. 2. However, increased salivation is much more common cause and when mixed with expiration of air, can produce foam around mouth. 3. Do get a chest x-ray done, if she has difficulty in breathing to rule out pulmonary edema. Also watch out for medications and possibility of aspiration of food or fluids during feeding. 4. Reducing salivation can be done through use of glycopyrrolate or amitriptyline. Need to watch for drug interactions and side effects. Caretaker support, round the clock is necessary. Hope it helps. Any further queries, happy to help again.