Parenting Assistance Line - PAL

Health & Safety

Shaken Baby Syndrome

Shaken Baby Syndrome is a form of inflicted traumatic brain injury that occurs when a baby is shaken violently. Violent shaking makes the fragile brain bounce back and forth inside the infant's skull causing bruising, swelling and bleeding of the brain which could lead to severe brain damage or even death of the infant.

Symptoms of Shaken Baby Syndrome

• Extreme irritability
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Poor sucking or swallowing
• Loss of appetite
• Rigidity
• Seizures
• Breathing problems
• Altered consciousness
• Lack of smiling or vocalizing
• Inability to lift the head
• Unequal pupil size
• Inability to focus the eyes or track movement

Effects of Shaken Baby Syndrome

• Death of infant
• Partial or total blindness
• Hearing loss
• Developmental delays
• Impaired intellect
• Problems with memory and attention
• Speech and learning disabilities
• Severe mental retardation
• Paralysis

Most cases of Shaken Baby Syndrome are the result of stress and frustration in the life of parents or caregivers. If you feel you are becoming frustrated and losing control, put the baby in a safe place and call a family member, friend or PAL for help. Parenting can be very stressful! It's okay for parents to need and ask for help. It is NOT okay to take out your frustration on your baby…NEVER, EVER, SHAKE A BABY OR CHILD!

Please talk with anyone who cares for your baby about the effects of shaking and how to prevent it. The good news is… it is 100% preventable!