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Definition
Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) refers to the unexpected, unexplained death of a child less than one year old. SIDS is rare during the first month of life. It peaks at 2 to 4 months of age, then gradually decreases.
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Brainstem
Area of the brain involved in regulation of breathing.
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Causes
Experts do not know the exact cause of SIDS. Many theories exist. Potential causes include:
- Abnormalities in a section of the brain that controls breathing during sleep and waking
- Abnormalities in the control of heart rhythm
- Changes in how serotonin, a neurotransmitter, functions in the brain
- Changes in some components of the immune system
- Inadequate arousal response to breathing obstruction or asphyxia—a lack of oxygen or excess carbon dioxide in the body caused by interruption of breathing; may cause unconsciousness
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Risk Factors
Risk factors that increase the chance of SIDS include:
- Infant's age: less than 6 months old
- Low birth weight
- Delayed fetal growth
- History of SIDS death in a sibling
- History of an acute life-threatening event
- Previous incident of unexplained severe apnea—when breathing is repeatedly interrupted and requires resuscitation
- Sleeping on the stomach or side rather than back
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Other risk factors are more general and include:
- Smoking during pregnancy or in a house where the baby is sleeping
- Alcohol , excessive caffeine, opiate, or cocaine use during pregnancy
- Mother's age: younger than 20 during first pregnancy
- Poverty
- Black, Native American, and Alaskan Native families
- Sex: male
- History of anemia or a urinary tract infection while pregnant
- No or late prenatal care
- Premature birth
- Recent infection and/or fever
- Cold weather in late fall or winter
- Overheating
- Low socioeconomic status or low level of education
- Co-sleeping in parents room
- Loose covers and blankets