Overview

Causes

Shaken baby syndrome is caused by shaking or jerking a baby or young child. Even a few seconds of abuse can cause injury because their neck muscles are not strong and their brains are still developing.

This condition often happens when a parent or other caregiver becomes angry or frustrated, such as when a baby will not stop crying.

Brain Bruised from Whiplash—Similar Effect in Shaken Baby Syndrome
Whiplash brain
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Risk Factors

Things that may raise the risk of this injury include a family history of:

  • Domestic or child abuse
  • Drug or alcohol abuse
  • Stress or social problems

SymptomsandDiagnosis

Symptoms

Symptoms can vary based on the injury. They may be:

  • Fussiness
  • Not growing as expected
  • Poor feeding or vomiting
  • Moving less often or stiff muscles
  • Pupils that are not the same size
  • Problems tracking objects
  • Seizures or spasms
  • Not fully awake or aware of surroundings
  • Problems breathing
  • Skin that has a blue color
  • Head swelling

Some children do not signs of abuse that can be seen. Children who do may have cuts, swelling, or bruises to the face, head, arms, belly or back.

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your child’s symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. The child may need to see a doctor or surgeon who treats brain problems.

An eye exam may be done to look for bleeding inside the eyes.

Imaging tests will be done to look for injuries. This can be done with:

  • X-rays
  • CT scan
  • MRI scan

Treatments

Treatment

Treatment is needed right away to lower the risk of brain damage. This can be done with supportive care to help with basic functions like breathing.

Easing Pressure on the Brain

Treatment may be needed to ease pressure on the brain caused by bleeding or swelling. This can be done with:

  • Medicine
  • Draining fluid from the head
  • Surgery to remove blood on the brain or rarely to remove part of the skull

Prevention

Shaken baby syndrome can be prevented by not shaking a baby or young child. Frustrated parents and caregivers should place the baby in a safe place and call a friend or family member to help.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Edits to original content made by Denver Health.