How to Prevent SIDS
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) occurs when an infant unexpectedly dies without any cause. There have been numerous research done to find out its cause. There are still no definite explanation for what causes SIDS.
To prevent your infant from being a victim of SIDS, you may follow these safety measures.
For Parents
Back- to- sleep. Have your baby sleep on his back even if he may be more comfortable sleeping on his stomach.
Use a firm mattress for your baby’s bed. The infant’s bed should also be free from things that may accidentally suffocate your baby, like covers, pillows, bumper pads, and toys.
Keep your baby’s crib in your room. To be able to frequently check on your baby easily, it’s best to place his crib in your bedroom.
Don’t let your baby sleep on your bed. An adult bed may not be safe for an infant.
Never use covers to keep infant warm. Dress your baby in warm clothes instead. Make sure that the room temperature is comfortable for you and your baby.
Breast feed. Mother’s milk contains substances that enhance an infant’s immune system.
Never bring your baby to crowded areas. It has been studied that aside from sleep apnea, respiratory infections also cause SIDS.
Wash your hands before and after caring for your baby to decrease his chance of getting any disease.
Don’t expose your baby to tobacco smoke. Smoking increases the risk for SIDS.
For Would-be Mothers
Plan your pregnancy. The ideal age range to get pregnant is between 25 and 35 years old. Infants born to teenage mothers have an increased risk for SIDS.
Have proper birth spacing. Wait for about a year before getting pregnant again. Short intervals between pregnancies pose a great risk for SIDS.
Have regular prenatal check ups. The key to having a healthy baby is a healthy pregnancy. Visit your doctor regularly, especially during the first trimester of your pregnancy.
Eat healthy. Your baby is going to get whatever you’re eating. Be sure to eat only nutritious foods.
Facts:
The peak incidence for SIDS is between the second and fourth month of an infant’s life. It’s usually rare on the 12th month.
Sleep apnea and inflammation of the upper respiratory tract are the most common reasons for SIDS. Some other factors that are said to cause this condition are:
Gastroesophageal reflux
Group B streptococci infection from the mother
Carbon dioxide
Viral infections
Sleep apnea is a condition where a person, in this case, an infant ceases to breathe.
An apneic episode that does not lead to death is called a near-miss SIDS.
This condition is more common among premature babies and those who are small for their gestational age.
No genetic factors have been found to cause SIDS.
Tips:
Here are some things you can do when your infant has an apneic episode:
Stimulate the infant by shaking him moderately.
If the infant does not produce any response, perform rescue breathing and CPR.
Bring the infant to the hospital immediately.
Although the definite cause for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is unknown, there are ways to decrease your baby’s chance of having SIDS. Have a healthy pregnancy, take care of your baby properly and check on him frequently even when he’s asleep.