Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS), also known as Abusive Head Trauma (AHT), is a serious form of child abuse that occurs when an infant or young child is violently shaken. Bouncing your baby on your knee or riding in a bumpy car will not cause this condition, although you should always support the head of your newborn. At Birth Choice, we consider it our obligation to provide medically accurate information that brings awareness to this form of child abuse.
What is Shaken Baby Syndrome?
Shaken Baby Syndrome occurs when an infant or young child is shaken with enough force to cause damage to the brain. Babies are particularly vulnerable because their neck muscles are weak, and their heads are large relative to their body size. When shaken, the baby’s brain moves back and forth inside the skull, leading to bruising, swelling, bleeding, and sometimes permanent brain injury.
SBS most often occurs when a caregiver becomes frustrated with a baby’s crying or behavior and reacts impulsively by shaking the baby out of anger. Even a brief, intense shaking can cause lasting damage. It can result in permanent brain damage, blindness, hearing loss, cerebral palsy, behavioral issues, and seizures. Infants are vulnerable to being shaken because the muscles needed to hold up their head are still developing.
Signs and Symptoms of Shaken Baby Syndrome
Identifying Shaken Baby Syndrome can be challenging because the symptoms are not always immediately obvious. The effects of shaking can vary depending on the force and frequency of the incident, but there are key signs that parents, caregivers, and medical professionals should look out for. Physical symptoms include:
- Lethargy or drowsiness: Babies who are suffering from SBS may seem excessively tired or have difficulty staying awake. This is often due to brain swelling or damage.
- Difficulty breathing: Shaking can cause injury to the baby’s respiratory system, leading to difficulty breathing or shallow breaths.
- Vomiting: Frequent vomiting that cannot be explained by illness can be a sign of brain trauma.
- Seizures: Shaking can cause seizures, which are involuntary muscle movements or convulsions caused by abnormal brain activity.
- Poor feeding or lack of appetite: Injuries from SBS can make it difficult for the baby to suck, swallow, or feed properly, leading to a loss of appetite.
- Inability to focus or track movement: Shaken Baby Syndrome may affect the baby’s vision, making it hard for them to follow objects or recognize familiar faces.
- Bruising around the head or neck: While external signs of trauma may be absent, any unexplained bruising around the baby’s head or neck should be taken seriously.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you suspect that a baby has been shaken or is displaying any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is critical to seek medical attention immediately. Time is of the essence when it comes to treating SBS, as prompt medical intervention can reduce the likelihood of severe or permanent brain damage. Doctors may use a variety of tests to diagnose Shaken Baby Syndrome, including CT scans, MRI scans, eye exams, and blood tests
Preventing Shaken Baby Syndrome
Education and awareness about the dangers of shaking can help prevent these tragic incidents. Here are some ways to prevent SBS:
- Stay calm during stressful situations: It’s normal for babies to cry, and sometimes their crying can be overwhelming for caregivers. If you feel yourself becoming frustrated, take a moment to breathe deeply and calm down. Place the baby in a safe place, like a crib, and step away for a few minutes to collect yourself.
- Ask for help: It’s important to have a support system in place. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out to friends, family members, or a healthcare provider for help. Taking breaks from caregiving can help reduce stress and prevent impulsive reactions.
- Educate caregivers: Ensure that anyone who cares for your baby (such as babysitters, relatives, or daycare providers) understands the dangers of shaking a baby and knows how to handle a crying or fussy child safely.
- Learn soothing techniques: Familiarize yourself with methods for soothing a crying baby, such as rocking, swaddling, or offering a pacifier. Babies cry for various reasons, including hunger, discomfort, or tiredness. Finding ways to comfort them can help reduce stress for both you and the baby.
- Know that it’s okay to let your baby cry: If nothing seems to soothe your baby, it’s okay to let them cry for a little while as long as they are in a safe environment. Sometimes babies cry even when their needs are met.
Shaken Baby Syndrome is a preventable and tragic form of child abuse that can have devastating consequences for both the baby and their family. Understanding the signs and symptoms of SBS, as well as how to respond to and prevent this condition, is crucial for all parents and caregivers. Remember, if you ever feel frustrated or overwhelmed by your baby’s crying, it’s essential to take a step back and seek help rather than react impulsively.