What is Shaken Baby Syndrome?
Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) is a type of Abusive Head Trauma (AHT). The victims are babies who have are shaken violently and repetitively with or without the head hitting something. The effects can be very serious and can include lifelong injury or even death.
SBS or AHT can cause:
• Damage to a child's brain.
• Permanent disabilities, like blindness or paralysis.
• Death.
Children less than 1 year old are the most at risk because they cry more often, but older children can also be seriously injured if they are shaken violently. No child, at any age, should ever be shaken.
When Do Babies Cry?
Babies usually cry because they need something. Normal babies cry when they are:
- Hungry
- Tired
- Wet
- Uncomfortable
Healthy babies might cry up to two or three hours a day. A baby with colic may cry all day long. Sometimes your baby just wants to be picked up and held.
Things To Try
- Give the baby a bottle of boiled water after it has been cooled
- Gently rub the baby's tummy
- Offer a pacifier—sucking is a comfort
- Walk or rock the baby snuggled up close to your chest so the baby can feel your heartbeat
- Take the baby for a walk in the fresh air
- Sing or talk to your baby
- Wrap the baby in a soft blanket
- Call a friend or relative to talk about your frustration or see if they can relieve you for a while
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