Overview
Most SIDS happens between 1 and 4 months.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Safe sleep questions
When to get medical care
Call 911A baby who is not breathing: call 911 and start CPR.
Get care todayNew or worse symptoms, or symptoms with fever.
See a doctor soonSymptoms that last or keep coming back.
Causes
Unknown.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
Who is more likely to get it
- Stomach sleeping
- Soft bedding
- Smoke exposure
Diagnosis
A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.
The exam
A physical exam.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.
Self-care
- Always place baby on their back to sleep
- Use a firm, flat crib with only a fitted sheet
- Share a room, not a bed
- Keep baby away from smoke
- Offer a pacifier at sleep
Which doctor treats this
- Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
Living with it
Support groups and helplines
- Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Free NIH information on rare diseases, including where to find experts and patient groups.
- National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): Patient groups, help finding care, and aid programs for rare diseases.
Back to school, work, or sports
- Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.
Children, pregnancy, and older adults
- Families who lost a baby: Grief support groups help.
For caregivers
- Learn the warning signs and when to call the doctor or 911.
- Keep a list of your child's medicines, doses, and doctors on your phone.
- Tell teachers, coaches, and sitters what to watch for and what to do.
- Learn CPR. Many hospitals and the Red Cross offer classes.
- Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.
Outlook
Safe sleep greatly lowers risk.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
What to bring
- A list of your medicines and supplements
- Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse
Questions to ask
- What's causing this?
- What treatment do you recommend?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.