Shaken Baby Syndrome

As a mother of a toddler and a baby, I understand how difficult being a parent can be. How overwhelmed and out of control things can feel at times. Nothing is more frustrating that a crying baby that is inconsolable. However, it is never ok to shake a baby. Even a few seconds of shaking can lead to permanent damage.

The actual definition of Shaken Baby Syndrome (or SBS for short) is a violent shaking of an infant or child that leads to a severe head injury. The shaking can last only a few seconds, but the sickening results will likely end in death or a lifetime of misery. It usually occurs in children under 2 years of age, but can affect a kid as old as 5. Anywhere from 1,200 to 1,600 children a year in the United States alone are reportedly shaken.

If you fear your baby has been shaken by relative or caregiver, seek medical attention immediately. It is very hard to diagnose, since there might not be any outward physical signs such as bruises or marks on the body. Common symptoms include: Changes in behavior. They are more likely to be irritable and not smiling, but any change should be noted. A loss of appetite. The baby might be unable or unwilling to feed. They are not alert or are very sleepy and sometimes difficult to wake up. Any loss of consciousness is very serious. Skin color might be pale or bluish from lack of oxygen. It might also have petechiae - small, purplish dots on the face and body which are hemorrhages. Seizures or convulsions, with or without vomiting. If your child vomits, be careful not to allow them to inhale it. It can aspirate into the lungs and cause pneumonia or death. Turn the head to the side to prevent this, or gently roll the whole body, cradling the neck if you suspect a spinal injury. No breathing. If this is the case, administer CPR and call 911.