Causes of “Sudden Infant Death Syndrome” in Raleigh
When it comes to caring for their new little baby, parents will do whatever they can, even if it means buying the nicest crib to keep their baby safe and sound throughout the night. However, tragic stories are being told far too often about little children who die with no cause while sleeping in their cribs. SIDS, otherwise known as “Sudden Infant Death Syndrome” is when a baby under the age of one dies seemingly out of nowhere.
For children between the ages of two and four months, SIDS is believed to be the most common cause of death, according to research compiled by the National Institute of Child Health & Human Development. Generally, when a child dies because of SIDS, there is no explanation that can be offered as to what may have caused it.
However, researchers are finding that in some circumstances here actually may be various other factors that contribute to this tragic event. To learn more or discuss whether you may have a case, call and schedule a consultation with a Raleigh product liability lawyer.
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Research Suggests Possible Causes
Over the past two decades scientists have been researching this very issue of sudden infant death syndrome, and have determined that while there may be no set in stone answer, there are possible causes associated with it. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that anything from the genetics of the child to the environment in which they are sleeping and the position they are laying can play a part in their death.
AAP researchers have seen that a baby who sleeps on their back is far less likely to die of SIDS than a baby who is on their stomach or side. Studies have found some connection with those who suffer from SIDS, finding that an African American child has twice a greater chance of this death, and ta Native American child or Alaskan Native has a three times higher chance of SIDS than a Caucasian baby.
Research has also connected SIDS, which has also been coined as “crib death,” as being connected to defective products or other recalled baby toys and items. Whether it is a defective crib, blankets, soft bedding, bed cords, etc. There are many items that are placing the lives of babies at risk with the parents being completely unaware.
Another common cause that has been linked to SIDS is when a baby is exposed to toxic chemicals such as lead poisoning, cleaning supplies, and many others. Many children are also experiencing negative reactions to their early infant vaccinations and it is believed that some of these may be a direct cause to the sudden death of the child.
Lastly, researchers are learning, that the levels of alcohol consumed by the parents also plays a role not he brain chemicals of the baby which may lead to SIDS as well.
Steps for Avoiding SIDS
While not all SIDS victims are related to defective products or medicinal reactions, there are a number of things parents can do to help prevent these tragedies from occurring. The AAP encourages all parents to help their babies sleep on their backs at all times, while you can’t watch them all the time, by placing them on their back when you lay them to sleep will help.
Make sure that all products you purchase are approved by the FDA and be aware of all warnings and recommendations given to parents regarding these products. In the infant’s bed area, be sure to have a firm surface for them to sleep on, remove any loose bedding or soft objects when they sleep and make sure that the crib meets all necessary standards for infant safety.
It is encouraged by the FDA as well as the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) that no infant be put to sleep with a positioning product, as this may lead to suffocation during their rest. As of late, there have been at least 12 cases that are possibly linked with infant deaths caused by these devices. Also, avoiding the use of soft bedding may help he child’s breathing during the night. Softer padding can result in the babies being positioned in such a way that their breathing passages are blocked.
What To Do If Your Child Has Died
In the event that your child is injured by a defective product, or has tragically died from SIDS and you believe it to be caused by a defective product, call a Raleigh personal injury attorney today! At the Whitley Law Firm we will do whatever we can to help you and your family pursue legal action against those responsible for your baby’s pain and suffering. Contact us today to discuss your case!
