How to Avoid Cot Deaths

Cot death also known as SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) is the most common type of death in babies. Infants less than six months are prone to it. However, cot death is not a disease. No particular reason has been found why some babies die like this. These deaths occur generally during sleep. Some researches say due to the lack of control on breathing and waking makes some babies less responding to a bed cloth covering their nose or mouth.

Although, any family can be affected by this loss, but it is less common in Asian families. Doctors still don’t know the reason but it could be because in Asian families the child is not left unattended even for a minute, for six months

Baby boys are far more prone to this problem. In fact, it is more common in boys, pre mature babies, babies with low weight, twins or other multiple births can also cause SIDS. An additional reason found was high levels of bacteria called ‘S. aureus’ and ‘E. ldi’ which damage the young heart, lungs and nervous systems.

It is not possible to prevent a cot death completely but by taking certain measures the risk can be decreased. Firstly, put your baby to sleep on his/her back right from birth. It prevents choking in the child. You also need to keep a check for at least six months while the baby is sleeping. Don’t use pillows; a firm mattress is good enough. Another thing which you should avoid is use of loose covers that wrap the babies face. It is better to use many layers of thin sheets and thin blankets. Sharing bed with the baby is not advisable. But sharing the room for at least six months will not only tire you less but also reduce the risk of SIDS.

Another thing which has to be taken care of is wash your hands before touching the baby. And try to avoid exposing the baby to sick people. This avoids a lot of infection.