Question
My baby is just over 40 days old and has been healthy without any issues. The elders at home remind us to avoid covering the baby’s mouth and nose while caring for them to prevent suffocation. Besides this, what other factors could lead to suffocation in a newborn over 40 days old?
Answer
One, Sofa: When people lie on the sofa, their bodies can easily sink into it, especially when infants roll over, their faces may come into contact with the soft sofa surface, potentially blocking their nostrils. If no one is paying attention, due to their young age and lack of awareness, infants may experience difficulty breathing or even suffocation and death. Two, Soft Pillows and Cushions: Some parents use pillows to make their babies more comfortable to sleep on, or place pillows on top of the pillows or cushions used by adults. The soft filling can cause an infant’s head to sink deeply into it. When the baby rolls over, the soft filling may cover the baby’s mouth and nose, increasing the risk of suffocation.