Overview

Causes

The exact cause is not known. It may be linked to problems with the parts of the brain that control functions like breathing, waking, and heart rhythm.

Brainstem
brainstem
Area of the brain involved in regulation of breathing.
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Risk Factors

This problem is more common in infants who are less than 6 months of age. It is also more common in boys and babies who are Black, Native American, and Native Alaskan.

Other things that may raise the risk are:

  • Premature birth or low birth weight
  • Sleeping on the stomach or side rather than the back
  • Using quilts, blankets, pillows, or similar bedding items
  • Overheating from wearing too much clothing
  • Co-sleeping in the parent(s) bed
  • Lack of prenatal care
  • Exposure to tobacco smoke
  • Upper respiratory infections
  • Parental alcohol or drug abuse

SymptomsandDiagnosis

Symptoms

A previously healthy infant does not respond and is not breathing after being placed in bed to sleep.

Diagnosis

All possible illnesses and causes of death must be ruled out before a diagnosis of SIDS is made. A complete investigation will take place. It will include:

  • An autopsy
  • Investigating the area where the baby was found
  • Reviewing the baby and family's medical histories

Treatments

Treatment

Emergency treatment will be needed as soon as the infant is found. Infant CPR must be started. A baby who survives will need further medical care and evaluation to look for a cause.

Families of infants who do not survive will be referred to grief counseling and support groups.

Prevention

The risk of this problem may be lowered by:

  • Getting regular prenatal care during pregnancy
  • Not smoking, drinking alcohol, or using drugs during pregnancy or after birth
  • Using safe sleeping practices, such as:
  • Putting infants to sleep on their back until 1 year of age
  • Using a firm, flat sleep surface
  • Avoiding soft, loose bedding and soft objects
  • Sleeping in the same room as parents but on a separate sleep surface—until at least 6 months
  • Not bed-sharing or sleeping with the baby on couches, soft chairs, or cushions
  • Making sure the infant is on his or her back when wrapped up (swaddled)
  • Offering a pacifier at nap time or bedtime
  • Breastfeeding until at least 6 months
  • Not putting too many clothing or blankets on an infant
  • Not depending on home monitors to reduce the risk of SIDS
  • Getting advised immunizations

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Edits to original content made by Denver Health.