Causes and Prevention of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

In 2017, 75% of all deaths of children under five years occurred within the first year itself. This is a whopping 4.1 million children, according to a study by the World Health Organization. With this astonishing high number of deaths in the first year, it’s important to be aware of the reasons leading to these fatalities. Parents can adopt preventable measures to save themselves from the nightmare of losing their baby to unexplained causes.

 
One common cause of infant mortality is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome or SIDS. Here’s what you need to know about this condition.

Potential Causes of SIDS

This is a syndrome in which a seemingly healthy baby who is less than a year old suddenly dies while sleeping. There are no warning signs or symptoms. A child can be vulnerable to SIDS due to the following reasons:

• Respiratory problems caused by infections when a child catches a cold
• Sleeping on their stomach rather than on their back
• Low weight at birth particularly for premature babies
• Underdeveloped brain parts which control heart rate, sleep awakening or breathing
• Body getting overheated while sleeping
• Mother being a smoker or being exposed to passive smoking during pregnancy
• Has siblings who have passed away due to SIDS

While these are some of the factors, the influence of each varies from child to child. It is best to consult an experienced pediatrician in Electronic City, Bangalore to know more about this syndrome and the factors causing it.

How to Prevent SIDS

This peculiar syndrome cannot be completely prevented. However, the best pediatricians in Electronic City, Bangalore say that there are some ways in which the chances of SIDS can be lowered.

While putting your baby to sleep, follow these rules:

1. Try to keep the baby’s cot as empty as possible. Include only a mattress, pillow and light blanket while sleeping. Avoid stuffing the cot with excessive soft toys and cushions. The baby’s face might get pressed onto these and breathing may be restricted.
2. Put your baby to sleep on his/her back. Sleeping on the side or on the stomach can affect breathing. Guide the caretakers of your baby to do the same.
3. Avoid putting heavy covers or blankets on the infant. Use soft, lightweight and breathable materials. Keep checking through the night to ensure that your baby’s movements have not covered the nose, mouth or head.
4. Try to breastfeed your baby for the first six months. This goes a long way to reduce the chances of SIDS.
5. Lastly, use a pacifier to calm down crying babies and avoid using monitors and other devices around the child.

If you are a new mother, it is highly advisable to seek help from expert pediatricians in Electronic City, Bangalore. Proper care can keep you baby safe from serious health risks.