What is shakening baby syndrome?

Shaken baby syndrome (SBS), also known as abusive head trauma (AHT), is a serious brain injury that occurs when a baby or young child is shaken violently. SBS can cause permanent brain damage, developmental delays, and even death.

Symptoms of SBS may include:

- Lethargy or irritability

- Vomiting

- Difficulty breathing

- Seizures

- Bruising of the face or head

- Bleeding in the eyes

- Swelling of the brain

- Death

If you suspect that a baby or young child has been shaken, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. SBS is a serious medical condition that can have lifelong consequences.

How is shaken baby syndrome caused?

SBS is caused by violent shaking of a baby or young child. This can happen when a caregiver becomes frustrated or angry with the child, or when the caregiver is playing too roughly. Shaking a baby or young child can cause the brain to bounce back and forth inside the skull, which can lead to serious brain damage.

What are the risk factors for shaken baby syndrome?

Some of the risk factors for SBS include:

- Caregivers who are under stress or have a history of violence

- Caregivers who are not familiar with the proper way to handle a baby or young child

- Babies or young children who are premature or have other health problems

- Babies or young children who live in a chaotic or violent environment

How can shaken baby syndrome be prevented?

SBS is a preventable condition. Here are some tips to help prevent SBS:

- Never shake a baby or young child

- Always support a baby or young child's head and neck when holding them

- Be gentle when playing with a baby or young child

- Set realistic expectations for your baby or young child

- Take a break if you feel angry or frustrated

- If you need help, reach out to a family member, friend, or healthcare professional

What are the long-term effects of shaken baby syndrome?

SBS can have a devastating impact on a child's life. Some of the long-term effects of SBS include:

- Intellectual disabilities

- Learning disabilities

- Behavior problems

- Vision problems

- Hearing problems

- Epilepsy

- Cerebral palsy

- Death

SBS is a serious medical condition that can have lifelong consequences. If you suspect that a baby or young child has been shaken, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.