What are the Symptoms of Shaken Baby Syndrome?
October 7, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Shaken baby syndrome is a serious form of child abuse that occurs when a baby or young child is violently shaken, causing sudden and forceful movement of the head. This can result in severe brain injury and other health issues. The symptoms of shaken baby syndrome can vary in severity and may include:
- Changes in Behavior or Irritability:
- Excessive fussiness, irritability, or difficulty in consoling the baby.
- Difficulty in Feeding or Eating:
- Difficulty sucking, swallowing, or feeding properly.
- Lethargy or Decreased Responsiveness:
- Extreme drowsiness or unresponsiveness, appearing limp or floppy.
- Decreased Muscle Tone or Weakness:
- Loss of muscle tone or strength, which may affect mobility and movement.
- Difficulty Breathing:
- Shallow or irregular breathing, difficulty in breathing, or gasping.
- Seizures or Convulsions:
- Seizures or convulsions, which may be severe or mild.
- Excessive Sleepiness or Coma:
- Excessive sleepiness, difficulty staying awake, or a coma-like state.
- Poor or No Eye Contact:
- Lack of eye contact or poor eye tracking.
- Inability to Focus or Fixate on Objects:
- Difficulty focusing or maintaining attention on objects or people.
- Vomiting or Projectile Vomiting:
- Vomiting or forceful expulsion of stomach contents.
- Pale or Blotchy Skin:
- Paleness or blotchiness of the skin, especially in the face.
- Difficulty in Coordination:
- Difficulty in coordinating movements, tremors, or stiff limbs.
- Inability to Lift the Head:
- Difficulty in lifting or supporting the head, particularly in younger infants.
- Loss of Developmental Milestones:
- Regression or loss of previously attained developmental milestones, such as sitting up, rolling over, or reaching for objects.
- Bulging Fontanelle (Soft Spot):
- A bulging fontanelle (soft spot on the baby’s head), which could indicate increased intracranial pressure.
It’s important to note that shaken baby syndrome can cause severe and irreversible brain damage, potentially resulting in long-term disabilities, developmental delays, or even death. If you suspect a child has been a victim of shaken baby syndrome or child abuse, seek immediate medical attention and report your concerns to appropriate authorities. Early detection and intervention are crucial in providing the best chance for the child’s recovery and preventing further harm.