Research Offers Possible New Cause of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
Tragically, over 3000 babies pass away each year in the United States due to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). It refers to an unexplained death of an infant who appears to be healthy, typically during sleep. SIDS is a tragic and distressing event that occurs suddenly and unexpectedly, most commonly in infants less than one-year-old. The exact cause of SIDS has remained unknown, and researchers believed that it may be the result of a combination of factors.
However, a new study just published in The Philly Voice suggests that SIDS could be the result of a brain abnormality. The article refers to a recent report by the Oxford University Press that says “babies that die of SIDS are more likely to have an altered version of a brain receptor that typically triggers babies to gasp for air when they fail to get enough oxygen while sleeping.” The researchers in the study say that this could be one of three factors that cause SIDS. The other two include the baby also being in a critical stage of cardiorespiratory development and facing an outside stressor such as one of the following:
- Sleeping on the stomach or side: Infants who are placed to sleep in these positions have a higher risk of SIDS compared to those placed on their backs.
- Unsafe sleep environment: Factors such as sharing a bed with adults.
- Soft bedding: The use of soft mattresses, pillows, crib bumpers, or excessive bedding.
- Overheating: Infants who become too hot during sleep are at a greater risk.
- Smoking exposure: Maternal smoking during pregnancy and exposure to secondhand smoke after birth have been linked to an increased risk of SIDS.
- Premature birth or low birth weight: Babies born prematurely or with a low birth weight are more vulnerable.
Additionally, “a study published last year found that the blood samples of 67 newborns who died of SIDS and other unknown causes had lower levels of an enzyme in the autonomic system, which controls heart rate, blood pressure, sweating, and body temperature control.”
To reduce the risk of SIDS, professionals recommend safe sleep practices, including:
- Placing infants on their backs to sleep.
- Using a firm mattress and avoiding soft bedding.
- Keeping the sleep environment cool and comfortable.
- Avoiding exposure to smoke before and after birth.
- Ensuring infants have a safe sleep space, such as a crib or bassinet.
5 Surprising Symptoms People Ignore Most When They're Sick
Cold sweats or Chills
Chills and cold sweats can be uncomfortable. Chills feel like a sudden wave of cold running through your body, making you shiver. Cold sweats, on the other hand, are when you start sweating but your skin feels cold and damp instead of warm. Some people may not immediately associate these symptoms with something serious. They might attribute them to temporary factors such as being in a cold environment or wearing too many layers of clothing. People may underestimate the significance of cold sweats or chills, especially if they are not accompanied by other noticeable symptoms. They may assume it’s just a passing discomfort that doesn’t require medical attention.
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Fever
When you have a fever, your body temperature rises above its normal range, which is typically around 98.6°F (37°C). Fevers can vary in severity and may range from mild to high-grade, depending on the underlying cause. Sometimes, people ignore a fever for a few reasons. They might think it’s just a common cold or flu and believe it’ll go away on its own. It’s important to remember that a fever can be a sign that the body is fighting an infection or an underlying health condition.
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Body Aches
When you experience body aches, you may feel soreness, tenderness, or a general sense of discomfort in your muscles, joints, or other areas. People may dismiss body aches because they may think it’s just a normal part of everyday life and not something to be concerned about. Some may believe their body aches are due to factors like physical exertion, tiredness, or overexertion during exercise. Also, if someone has experienced them before and they have resolved on their own.
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Green Mucus
Some people may believe that the color of mucus is not a reliable indicator of an illness. While green mucus can be associated with certain infections or respiratory conditions, it’s not always a definite sign of a serious problem. People may assume that it’s normal and will resolve on its own.
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Serious Cough
This kind of cough can disrupt your daily life, mess with your sleep, and leave you feeling exhausted. People ignore serious coughs for a few reasons. Some think it’ll go away on its own or believe it’s just a minor issue like a cold or allergies. Others worry about the cost or hassle of going to the doctor. There’s also the fear of getting a serious diagnosis that can make people hesitant to seek help.
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