Sids What are signs or symptoms?

Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is defined as the sudden, unexplained death of a child under 1 year of age that remains unexplained after a thorough investigation, including an autopsy. Because the cause is unknown, there are no specific signs or symptoms that can definitely predict SIDS. However, some factors have been identified that increase the risk of SIDS, such as:

* Sleeping in a prone (face-down) position

* Sleeping on a soft surface, such as a waterbed or beanbag

* Sleeping in the same bed as an adult or older sibling

* Being exposed to secondhand smoke

* Having a low birth weight

* Being born prematurely

* Having a family history of SIDS

It is important to note that these are just risk factors and do not mean that a child will definitely develop SIDS. Also, the presence of these factors does not necessarily mean that a child is at high risk for SIDS. The risk of SIDS is extremely low, and most infants who sleep in unsafe sleep environments or have other risk factors do not die from SIDS.

If you are concerned about your child's risk of SIDS, talk to your doctor. They can help you create a safe sleep environment for your child and reduce the risk of SIDS.