SEVERE saliva and runny nose problem. Any advice?

I would also request a GI consult which can also include a swallowing study.
The pocketing of food could be caused by an inability to swallow. Often liquid will run out the nose when someone can't swallow properly.
You can also go the ENT route at the same time. Keep her lips and round her mout well lubricatedor they will get very sore ,peel and split.

I would get her in to see an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist. Not only is that really uncomfortable but there is a real chance of choking on the excess fluids. Not to mention getting a wound from constantly wet skin, that can then expose her to every infection around.

My husband's allergist said that the 24 hour pills are not really strong enough and you need 2 a day when you have problems with symptoms. I would also ask if a decongestant, like generic sudafed, could be tried.

Point out to the doctor that the solution is not working and can he try something else or write a referral to a ENT, or both, as it would be tragic if something happens for want of a little attention.

Just for information, I use the generic Sam's club brand for sudafed and it has been a blessing, it's cheap and effective, usually 1 or 2 pills a day keep me breathing. And I don't experience side effects like I do with name brand.

Please let us know how this gets straightened out for your mom. Oh yeah, bring up her dignity if the doctor hesitates at all.

Air Conditioning? Mold? Yes that could be a contributing factor, highly unlikely although. This person has DEMENTIA , that is what is causing this condition. They forget to swallow and/or their brain is not functioning correctly. And from experience when they stop drooling, it comes out their nose. Go to and ENT Doctor, do a swallow study.

Check the air conditioning system in her room. It could be dirty and harboring mold which was the case from my mother when she was doing rehab in a facility. When I opened up the air conditioning/heating system it was filthy inside with mold and she was breathing contaminated air and it caused her to have an allergic reaction. Quite often cleaning the air conditioning system is overlooked in facilities. As soon as I pointed it out, they put in a whole new unit that was spotlessly clean and she got much better. Look for any telltale signs of mold in her room and bathroom.

Something is causing your mother to have a reaction. My mom also had food allergies and so we had to have her avoid certain foods. This was much more difficult but it is doable if the staff will cooperate. Allegra seems to be a better antihistamine than Claritin according to pharmacists that I've spoken to. They believe the Allegra is longer acting. But if your mom has chronic exposure to allergens nothings going to help completely. I hope this information helps.