Sudden Infant Death Syndrome: Part 3
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome: Part 3
If your child falls in one of the following groups, take caution. The American SIDS Institute says that if your baby falls in any of these groups, they have a higher risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome by as much as 5-10 times.
1. Infants born weighing less than 3.5 lbs
2. Has a sibling who has died from SIDS
3. Has been exposed to drugs during pregnancy
4. The second or following children of a teenage mother
5. Infants who have been in an apparent life threatening event.
One of the most important things you can do if you already have an infant is always put your baby to sleep on its back. Babies that sleep on their stomachs or even their sides have a higher risk of SIDS. There are many things you can buy now to keep your baby on its back. Always use a firm mattress. There is a lot of controversy on co-sleeping, but if you must, make sure that the mattress has been approved for infant safety. Never place other items such as toys, pillows, or thick blankets where your baby is sleeping. Any of these things can cause your baby to suffocate. You should also make sure to dress your baby in light clothing. Thick clothing can make your child overheat. Also, make sure the temperature in the room is comfortable.
Do you know someone who smokes? Never let anyone smoke around your infant. The more exposure to tobacco smoke, the higher the risk of SIDS. Along the same lines, do not let your baby get around anyone who is sick. SIDS can occur with a mild repertory infection or gastrointestinal infection.
Follow these simple guidelines and you can prevent some of the major factors that higher the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Remember, SIDS cannot be completely prevented, but lowering the risk can change a tragic future.
By: Natasha Browning
If your child falls in one of the following groups, take caution. The American SIDS Institute says that if your baby falls in any of these groups, they have a higher risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome by as much as 5-10 times.
1. Infants born weighing less than 3.5 lbs
2. Has a sibling who has died from SIDS
3. Has been exposed to drugs during pregnancy
4. The second or following children of a teenage mother
5. Infants who have been in an apparent life threatening event.
One of the most important things you can do if you already have an infant is always put your baby to sleep on its back. Babies that sleep on their stomachs or even their sides have a higher risk of SIDS. There are many things you can buy now to keep your baby on its back. Always use a firm mattress. There is a lot of controversy on co-sleeping, but if you must, make sure that the mattress has been approved for infant safety. Never place other items such as toys, pillows, or thick blankets where your baby is sleeping. Any of these things can cause your baby to suffocate. You should also make sure to dress your baby in light clothing. Thick clothing can make your child overheat. Also, make sure the temperature in the room is comfortable.
Do you know someone who smokes? Never let anyone smoke around your infant. The more exposure to tobacco smoke, the higher the risk of SIDS. Along the same lines, do not let your baby get around anyone who is sick. SIDS can occur with a mild repertory infection or gastrointestinal infection.
Follow these simple guidelines and you can prevent some of the major factors that higher the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Remember, SIDS cannot be completely prevented, but lowering the risk can change a tragic future.
By: Natasha Browning
9/16/2005
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