Shaken Baby Syndrome

These things may increase the risk that parents or caregivers might forcefully shake a baby and cause shaken baby syndrome:

• Having unrealistic expectations of babies.
• Having a baby that cries uncontrollably.
• Having a baby born prematurely or with medical needs.
• Being a young or single parent.
• Stress.
• Domestic violence.
• Alcohol or substance misuse.
• Unstable family situations.
• Depression.
• A history of mistreatment as a child.

Also, men are more likely to severely shake a baby hard enough to cause shaken baby syndrome than women are.

Even brief shaking of an infant can cause brain damage that can’t be reversed. Many children affected by shaken baby syndrome die.

Children who survive shaken baby syndrome may require lifelong medical care for conditions such as:

• Partial or total blindness.
• Delayed development.
• Troubles with learning and behavior.
• Seizures or epilepsy.
• Cerebral palsy, a disorder that affects movement and muscle coordination.

New parent education classes can help parents better understand the dangers of violent shaking. The classes also may provide tips to soothe a crying baby and manage stress.

When your crying baby can’t be calmed, you may be tempted to try anything to get the tears to stop. But it’s important to always treat your child gently. Nothing justifies shaking a child.

If you’re having trouble managing your emotions or the stress of parenthood, seek help. Your child’s healthcare professional may offer a referral to a counselor or other mental health professional.

If other people help take care of your child, make sure they know the dangers of shaken baby syndrome. These people might include a hired caregiver, sibling or grandparent.