Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
SIDS
What is SIDS
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is the sudden and unexplained death of an infant under 1 year of age. Which occurs when baby is sleeping
What puts babies at higher risk?
- Babies that sleep on soft surfaces
- Babies that sleep with loose bedding or lots of blankets
- Babies who share beds
- If baby has been exposed to smoke, during pregnancy or after birth
- If the baby was born premature
- If the baby has been exposed to excessive amounts of Carbon Dioxide
Ways to prevent SIDS
- always put baby in back to sleep
- do not put blankets/toys in crib
- do not smoke while pregnant and do not allow anyone to smoke around infant
- swaddle baby
- do not place baby on stomach or side to sleep
Signs and Symptoms of SIDS
There are few signs or symptoms of SIDS but one is overheating/temperature fluctuation and another is trouble breathing while sleeping.
Statistics
- over 4,500 babies die from SIDS each year
- Most cases occur at 2-4 months of age
- more common for boys
- Deaths most often occur during Fall, Winter, and early Spring months
What to do if you think your baby is affected
CALL 911