Saliva baby: Drooling and Your Baby – HealthyChildren.org

Babies infer that people are close if they’re willing to share saliva : NPR

This stock image shows a baby and father playing at home. New research finds that babies judge the relationship between two people by whether or not they willingly share saliva.

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freemixer/Getty Images

This stock image shows a baby and father playing at home. New research finds that babies judge the relationship between two people by whether or not they willingly share saliva.

freemixer/Getty Images

Even before they can talk, young babies know that two people must have a close relationship if they’re willing to do to anything that involves swapping saliva.

Kissing on the mouth, sharing a spoon, taking licks off of someone’s ice-cream cone — all of these activities generally only happen when people have an especially intimate relationship, and this fact appears to be obvious to infants who are only 8 to 10 months old, according to a new study in the journal Science.

“From a really young age, without much experience at all with these things, infants are able to understand not only who is connected but how they are connected,” says Ashley Thomas of MIT, who studies what babies and young children understand about the complexities of their social world. “They are able to distinguish between different kinds of cooperative relationships.”

Who do babies look to first?

Thomas and her colleagues reached that conclusion after showing videos of carefully crafted puppet shows to babies and toddlers.

One of their videos shows a woman rolling a ball back and forth with a blue fuzzy puppet. Then another woman shares an orange with that same puppet by putting a slice of orange in her mouth, then letting the puppet nibble on the slice, and then putting it back in her own mouth.

“Both of these interactions are perfectly friendly and pro-social,” says Thomas, but taking bites off the same food suggests a more intimate relationship than simply playing ball.

To test whether infants made this distinction, the video then shows the two women with the blue fuzzy puppet in between them. The puppet starts to cry and puts its head down, as if it is suddenly unhappy.

When the puppet cried, infants and toddlers looked first and looked longer at the woman who had shared bites of her orange.

“They’re looking in that direction because they expect something to happen there,” says Thomas. “They expect that woman to be the one to respond to the puppet’s distress.“

When the two women were shown with a totally new puppet that started to cry, however, infants and young children looked at both women equally often. This suggested that they didn’t see this particular food-sharing woman as especially helpful; instead, her relationship with the puppet was what really mattered.

To make sure it wasn’t just sharing of food that seemed to make babies infer the existence of a close social connection, the researchers created another, similar video. This time, instead of sharing an orange slice, a woman simply put her finger in her own mouth and then put it in a purple puppet’s mouth, before putting it back in her own mouth.

Then that same woman also interacted with a green puppet, touching its forehead and then touching her own forehead. After that, the video showed the woman seemingly in distress, with the purple and green puppets looking on.

Infants and toddlers gazed at the purple puppet that had the more intimate, finger-in-the-mouth interaction, as if expecting this puppet to be more affected by the woman’s consternation, presumably because they seemed to have a closer relationship.

The researchers also studied older children, aged 5 to 7, and told them about another child who was sharing stuff. Some of the sharing involved contact with saliva, although the scientists never explicitly referred to spit.

“We just said, like, ‘This kid is eating applesauce with a spoon and he shares his applesauce with one of these two people using his spoon. Who do you think he shared with?’ And the choices were always between a family member and a friend,” explains Thomas.

For items that could be easily divvied up, like separate pieces of candy or toys, kids thought a person was just as likely to share with a friend as a family member.

“But when it comes to saliva-sharing items, like sharing an ice cream cone or using the same spoon, then kids think that the kid is more likely to share with family,” says Thomas.

Saliva as social glue

Other researchers find these results intriguing.

“These findings not only illuminate what young children understand about the social structures around them but also spark further questions regarding how children come to acquire these expectations and how universal they might be,” writes Christine Fawcett of Uppsala University in Sweden, in a commentary that was published along with this new study.

She notes that the idea of exchanging saliva with a stranger can create feelings of disgust, perhaps as a way to protect people from contamination or disease, but that people will happily do this with those close to them, even pet dogs.

There could be an evolutionary pressure to suppress disgust with bodily substances to aid in taking care of babies, and infants’ experience of this kind of caretaking could then lead to a learned expectation that such behavior is associated with closeness, Fawcett points out.

But Alan Fiske, an anthropologist at UCLA, believes that babies have an innate understanding of certain kinds of social relationships. He’s written that humans are born primed to recognize four fundamental forms of relationships, and he calls this study “enormously important.”

In relationships characterized by “communal sharing,” he says, sharing saliva “is a way of connecting bodies, or making bodies the same in some respect. And that’s the crucial thing. When people feel that some how they are essentially the same, almost in an embodied way, then they feel socially the same.”

“Spit sharing is one instance of, or one type of, connecting bodies physically through bodily substances,” says Fiske. But there are other ways — such as having sex, breastfeeding, or even mingling blood to become “blood brothers.” The ritual of communion in Christianity, he notes, involves ingesting the body and blood of Jesus Christ as a way for that religion to express and reinforce a communal sharing relationship.

This kind of close relationship can be created between people in other ways that don’t involve body fluids, however, such as grooming, snuggling and hugging, or synchronous rhythmic movement such as dancing or marching, says Fiske.

In this view, babies seem to just know all this innately. He believes that future studies will show that babies not only observe these activities to understand the social links of those around them, but also actively initiate these behaviors themselves in order to forge relationships with others.

“They know how to hug and snuggle, and they know how to feed you, and they like to do those things,” says Fiske. “And they don’t feed just anybody, they feed the people that they love. They don’t cuddle with just anybody, they cuddle with the people that they love.”

Saliva Collection from Infants and Small Children for Research Studies – Salimetrics

Studies have reported that some older preschoolers are able to donate saliva samples by spitting or drooling (1,2), but researchers have generally found that using some sort of absorbent device is the best way to collect saliva from young children. Parents often have a better chance of getting the child to accept the device into his or her mouth, but even they may not succeed if the child is frightened, cranky, or overexcited.

Safety is an important issue when choosing a collection device to use with children, due to the potential for choking. For this reason, we advise that our own SalivaBio Oral Swab (SOS) – a 1 x 3 cm swab made of an inert polymer – should be used only for adults and children 6 years and older.

Salimetrics previously recommended two devices that could be held by a parent or technician to insure that they were not choking hazards:

• Braided cotton dental rope. Although widely used in many studies for both children and adults (3-6), cotton was a poor collection material due to its unpleasant taste and texture, the difficulty of recovering the saliva and/or analytes from the cotton, and the fact that it causes interference with certain biomarkers, including testosterone, SIgA, estradiol, DHEA, and progesterone (7,8).
• The Sorbette – a small, arrowhead-shaped hydrocellulose sponge attached to a plastic shaft. (BD Opthalmic Systems Visipear, prod. no. 581089) The Sorbette was an improvement over cotton rope, with better overall recovery of volume and cortisol compared to cotton (7) and it has been successfully used in studies with young children (8-11). However, the volume recovered from the Sorbette could still be unacceptably low (7). This was mainly due to the sorbette appearing to have collected a sufficient sample volume, before reaching capacity, and because the capcity was limited to 200-300 µL per device. This led to researchers utilizing multiple sorbettes at the same time, and even then still failing to obtain enough sample to complete testing. An additional negative point was that Salimetrics approved the Sorbette for use only when testing for cortisol, α-amylase, cotinine, and SIgA, since it caused assay interference for other analytes. Similar “eyespear” devices from other manufacturers have also been found to cause varying degrees of assay interference for cortisol determination, unlike the Sorbette, and they should not be used for saliva collection without appropriate validation (12). Use of the Sorbette was also problematic when samples were to be tested for analytes that require expression of assay results in relation to saliva flow, such as SIgA and sAA. (13,14) Given its limited absorbent capacity, there was a real likelihood that the Sorbette would reach saturation very quickly when adequate saliva was present in the mouth. We therefore felt that it was probably not possible to reliably estimate flow rates by noting the length of time it was in the mouth and weighing the device to determine the volume absorbed. (14)

Given the need for a child-safe collection device that works with a broader range of analytes and that collects a larger volume, Salimetrics has introduced two alternative versions of the SOS: the SalivaBio Children’s Swab (SCS) (Item No. 5001.06), and the SalivaBio Infant’s Swab (SIS) (Item No. 5001.08) These devices are manufactured in longer lengths, which allows one end to be held by an adult while the other end is placed in the child’s mouth. The diameters of the SCS and SIS are appropriate for the size of the children’s mouths, 8 mm and 5 mm, respectively. The polymer used for the swabs is very durable and can withstand chewing by the child, and its taste and texture are also acceptable to children. Like the original SOS, samples collected with either the SCS or the SIS may be tested for multiple analytes. And, importantly, even at small collected volumes of 25-50 µL, the recoveries of saliva volume and cortisol from the SCS are = 90 and 95 %, respectively.

Either swab can also be centrifuged or compressed (in a 5 cc needless syringe) if desired. In this case, the wet end of the swab should be inserted into the storage tube (or syringe), followed by doubling the dry end over into the opening, and finally using the cap (or plunger) to push the entire swab into the interior space. This procedure will allow the entire swab and storage tube to be weighed before and after collection of samples for determination of SIgA or sAA, in order to estimate the saliva flow rate during the timed collection period. The issue of the swab remaining in the mouth after the point of saturation is still a concern, however, and estimates of the flow rate and secretion rate will be inaccurate if the collection period is too long (14). We therefore advise that some preliminary study should be done to determine the optimum collection duration for the type of subjects in the study.

Researchers with infants achieved the highest success rate for saliva collection with the infant swab when the infants were allowed to chew or suck on the swab for 30-60 seconds, followed by mopping up any pooled saliva left in the mouth or on the face. The samples were then recovered immediately by compression in a syringe, and the procedure was repeated to collect more saliva until a sufficient volume was reached. When the samples arrived at our testing laboratory for testosterone analysis, most of the volumes were around 1 mL, and there were no samples with insufficient volume.

Sialoadenitis (inflammation of the salivary glands) – treatment, symptoms

In the human oral cavity, on the surface of the mucous membrane, there are three pairs of large salivary glands. One pair of them – parotid – are located in front and under the auricle. These are the largest salivary glands. The second pair – submandibular – is located under the lower jaw, slightly below the back teeth. The third pair – the sublingual salivary glands – are located under the mucous membrane of the bottom of the oral cavity on the left and right sides of the tongue.

All three pairs of salivary glands produce a specific secret – saliva. Saliva is produced in the body through special ducts located inside the oral cavity.

The main function of saliva in the body is to ensure normal and healthy digestion. Saliva softens hard pieces of food, preparing them for entry into the stomach. It also helps a person to swallow these softened food pieces.

If a person develops inflammation of the salivary glands, saliva ceases to perform its main function. The process of saliva production fails, swallowing food becomes more and more difficult.

If you experience pain, inflammation, bleeding gums, do not wait until the symptom goes away. You can muffle it with painkillers, but it is impossible to stop the inflammatory process without the intervention of a specialist! Contact your dentist for a consultation. Dentistry on Shchelkovskaya Diamed is located near the Shchelkovskaya metro station. We work for you seven days a week. You can make an appointment with a dentist by calling 8 (495) 221-21-18 or by filling out the online appointment form.

Why inflammation of the salivary glands begins

There are two types of inflammation of the salivary glands.

Epidemic sialoadenitis

Epidemic sialoadenitis is caused by viral diseases and infections. A common cause of inflammation of the salivary glands is mumps. The virus in this disease passes from one person to another by airborne droplets. The inflammatory process in the salivary glands occurs with a strong increase in their size.

Non-epidemic sialoadenitis

Another cause of inflammation of the salivary glands is the formation of blockage of the salivary duct. Violations in the functioning of the duct can occur due to severe mechanical injuries, the ingress of foreign bodies into them, the development of salivary stone disease in humans – sialolithiasis.

A very common reason for the development of inflammation of the salivary glands is the irregular observance of the rules of oral hygiene. Non-epidemic parotitis – this is what inflammation of the parotid salivary glands is called in medicine – can occur as a result of the transfer of an infectious disease (pneumonia, influenza, typhoid, encephalitis are at risk) or as a result of surgical intervention.

How sialadenitis manifests itself

The most common symptoms of inflammation of the salivary glands include:

• pain during eating, swallowing food;
• redness, swelling of the face or neck;
• disturbance of taste sensations;
• the presence of an unpleasant aftertaste in the oral cavity;
• dry mouth;
• difficulty opening the mouth;
• the appearance of shortness of breath;
• general increase in body temperature.

It should be borne in mind that in acute sialoadenitis, the symptoms subside as quickly and abruptly as they appear. But this is not a reason to forget about the problems that have only recently tormented you. The fact is that the disease does not go away, but only goes into a quiet stage, which can subsequently lead to the development of chronic sialadenitis.

Sialadenitis can be accompanied by complications if treatment is not started in time or if all prescriptions of the attending physician are not followed. The most common complications include:

• formation of abscesses on the floor of the mouth;
• abscess (purulent inflammation) of the salivary glands;
• re-infection.

Diagnosis and treatment of inflammation of the salivary glands

How sialoadenitis is diagnosed

Diagnose sialadenitis by a dentist during an oral examination or by a general practitioner if you go to a multidisciplinary clinic with a disease. During the examination, a significant increase in the salivary glands is usually detected, sometimes – the release of purulent fluid. In the case of a bacterial infection, soreness of the salivary glands is revealed.

If the attending physician suspects an abscess, the patient will usually order an ultrasound. Our Dentistry is located in the same building as the multidisciplinary clinic “Diamed” on Schelkovskaya. You will be able to quickly receive treatment and undergo the necessary diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

Treatment of sialadenitis

Sialoadenitis is easier to treat when the disease is acute and has not become chronic.

The treatment of acute sialadenitis consists in the use of special drugs that increase the secretion of salivary fluid. In the treatment of sialoadenitis, an important place is occupied by physiotherapeutic procedures, in particular ultra-high frequency therapy (UHF) and laser physiotherapy. After the start of physiotherapeutic procedures, relief occurs already on the third day, and on the 7th day the disease completely disappears. The physiotherapy room is located in the same building as our dentistry, you will be directed to an appointment with a specialist physiotherapist for a free consultation.

During the treatment period, it is very important to follow all the rules of oral hygiene. It is recommended to brush your teeth not only in the morning and evening, but also to clean after each meal with dental floss. Compliance with this rule helps prevent the further development of inflammation. For the period of treatment, smokers are strictly required to get rid of their bad habits.

During treatment it is very correct to observe the diet. The food you eat should be cut into small pieces. Also, a positive effect on the salivary glands has an abundant use of warm liquids – milk, rosehip broth, exclusively fresh juices and fruit drinks.

If you have a fever, your doctor will prescribe antipyretic and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Chronic sialoadenitis is difficult and long to treat. There is a high probability that a complete elimination of the disease may not occur. That is why we recommend that you contact your dentist as soon as possible. During periods of onset of exacerbations, antibiotics or drugs that help increase salivation are indicated. Antibacterial therapy is carried out. A good effect is the use of direct current of low and low voltage for medicinal purposes (this procedure is called galvanization of the salivary glands).

Pharyngitis – what is it? Causes, symptoms, treatment

What is pharyngitis?

This is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the pharynx and its lymphoid tissue. With pharyngitis, the throat is ticklish, sore and irritated. The pain is aggravated by swallowing. Usually pharyngitis develops with influenza and SARS. Viral pharyngitis usually goes away on its own. Some other less common forms of pharyngitis may require treatment.

IMPORTANT! Information from the article cannot be used for self-diagnosis and self-treatment! Only a doctor can prescribe the necessary examinations, establish a diagnosis and draw up a treatment plan for a consultation!

Symptoms:

• sore throat;
• pain worse when swallowing;
• difficult to swallow;
• swollen cervical lymph nodes;
• white spots or streaks on tonsils, back of throat;
• hoarse or hoarse voice.

Accompanying symptoms of SARS or flu can be: cough, sneezing, runny nose, stuffy nose, fever, pain in the head and body, nausea or vomiting.

When to go to the doctor?

Show your child to the doctor if the child’s sore throat does not go away after breakfast.

Call an ambulance immediately if:

• the child is having difficulty breathing;
• he cannot swallow;
• The infant is unusually drooling, which may indicate an inability to swallow saliva.

If an adult has pharyngitis, see a doctor if:

• severe or prolonged (more than a week) sore throat;
• sore throat often;
• difficulty breathing, swallowing or opening the mouth;
• earache;
• joint pain;
• rash;
• fever above 38.3 for more than three days;
• blood in saliva or sputum;
• pain when turning the head;
• nodes and tumors on the neck;
• hoarseness, hoarseness lasts more than two weeks.

Causes

As a rule, it is a viral infection (ARVI), in some cases it is bacterial (streptococcus, pneumococcus). In addition, the cause of pharyngitis can be:

• Allergic to dust, mold, pet hair, plant pollen. Since allergies cause a runny nose, fluid can drain down the back of the nasopharynx and irritate the throat;
• dryness of the air, especially in the morning;
• tobacco smoke, chemical irritants;
• overexertion of the vocal cords (long performances, loud screams at sports competitions, etc. )
• gastroesophageal reflux – reflux of stomach contents back into the esophagus. May be accompanied by heartburn, lump in the throat, hoarseness.
• HIV. Pharyngitis may be a sign of a recent HIV infection in the body. Also, people who have long been infected with HIV may experience secondary acute and chronic pharyngitis caused by cytomegalovirus, oral candidiasis, and common viruses that cause SARS. These complications in HIV-positive people can be dangerous.
• malignant tumors of the throat, tongue, trachea can also be manifested by pharyngitis, coupled with hoarseness, breathing noise, blood in saliva and sputum, a “knot” on the neck.

Rare causes of pharyngitis can be a throat abscess and epiglottitis, a serious condition in which the epiglottis, which is like a petal between the trachea and larynx, becomes inflamed and blocks air from entering the airways. As a rule, epiglottitis in children is caused by a hemophilic infection, against which it is necessary to get vaccinated in time.

Risks and measures to prevent pharyngitis

Children and adolescents get sick more often with pharyngitis, adults also get sick, but less often. Also, the risks of pharyngitis increase with dry air, irritation of the throat with tobacco smoke or chemicals, with allergies, weakened immunity, chronic or frequent infections of the nasopharynx.

You can reduce the likelihood of illness in the same way as with other nasopharyngeal infections: wash your hands, do not drink from the same cup with others, cover your mouth when coughing and sneezing (do not “share” your viruses), wipe the screen and keypads of phones, and other devices, etc.

Diagnosis of pharyngitis

Usually, the ENT examines the patient’s throat, as well as his nose and ears, carefully palpates the lymph nodes, listens to breathing with a stethoscope.

The streptococcal test is a simple and reliable way to diagnose bacterial pharyngitis. The doctor takes a scraping from the child’s throat, and within 24-48 hours the result is ready. Streptococcal pharyngitis will have to be treated with antibiotics.

We have our own laboratory in the clinic, so you can always take all the necessary tests with us!

Treatment

Viral pharyngitis usually resolves within 5-7 days. The child should be provided with:

• peace and the opportunity to sleep as long as he wants;
• drink plenty of water to relieve sore throat and prevent dehydration;
• humidification;
• Sore throat can be relieved by both warm drinks and cold ice cream, especially popsicles;
• for sore throats, gargle with a solution of table salt – a teaspoon in 250 ml of warm water;
• children over 4 years of age can be offered lozenges for sore throats. Do not give lozenges to small children – they may choke;
• do not smoke around a sick child, avoid strong irritating odors in the throat;
• Paracetamol and ibuprofen medications can help relieve sore throat and high fever.