If you've had a neck fusion, the swallowing issue is because of the tube that is placed in your mouth to make sure your airway stays open & you don't choke. The swelling goes down eventually but it's annoying & takes time. Be patient I truly understand as I have the same issue as I had a 2nd Neck Fusion on April 1st (not an April Fool's joke). I am Asthmatic so I use inhalers & a nebulizer for breathing treatments. It helps a lot. The salivating for me is annoying too, but I wear dentures & it's a normal side affect, as the body sees it as a foreign object & responds accordingly. If you want to comment, please do so. I am new to this site & will try to check often for any reply's to my posts. I hope this helps.