Health Tips for January 20

Health Tip: Dealing With Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety occurs when a child is fearful of being left with someone else. While these feelings are normal, parents may not know how to react when a child becomes this upset.

If your child has symptoms of separation anxiety, follow these suggestions from the Nemours Foundation:

* Try not to begin child care or day care between 8 and 12 months of age, when separation anxiety is most likely to start.
* Try not to leave your child when she is tired or hungry -- try to schedule your departure after a meal or nap.
* Gradually introduce your child to spending time alone with other people.
* Be calm and consistent when leaving your child -- firmly tell her that you're leaving but that you'll be back, and give her a timeframe.
* Follow through on promises you make, and don't show up late after you've promised your child to be back at a certain time.

Health Tip: Swollen Gums Can Signal Poor Health

Swollen gums are a symptom of problems ranging from poor hygiene to a serious health problem such as lack of vitamin C (scurvy). If you discover that you have swollen gums, speak to your doctor or dentist about determining a cause.

Here are possible explanations for swollen gums, courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine:

* Viral or fungal infection.
* Gingivitis.
* Ill-fitting dentures.
* Reaction or sensitivity to toothpaste or mouthwash.
* Side effect of medications.
* Poor nutrition or malnourishment.
* Scurvy.
* Pregnancy.