Eric, your thick saliva will eventually thin out and stop. In my case, it was precisely 21 days, for others, shorter or longer, and some lucky ducks didn't have it at all. To sleep, I made rolls of gauze and put that in the gutters (like that technical term?) of my mouth, which allowed me to sleep for several hours. I slept with my head and shoulders slightly elevated, which also helped. I am not the only one who discovered that Puffs brand tissues are the best for clearing out one's mouth. They are soft and do not disintegrate. Finally, know that the thick gunk will stop eventually. Your energy ups and down are normal, and all in all, it sounds like you are right where you should be in your recovery. If I had a supply of patience pills, I would send you some. Hang in there!