Shaken baby syndrome

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Shaken baby syndrome (pronounced: /ˈʃeɪkən ˈbeɪbi ˈsɪndroʊm/), also known as abusive head trauma (AHT), is a severe form of physical child abuse resulting from violently shaking an infant or child.

Etymology

The term "shaken baby syndrome" has been used since the 1980s. It is derived from the medical findings of internal head injuries without signs of external trauma.

Definition

Shaken baby syndrome is a serious brain injury resulting from forcefully shaking an infant or toddler. It destroys a child's brain cells and prevents his or her brain from getting enough oxygen. Shaken baby syndrome is a form of child abuse that can result in permanent brain damage or death.

Symptoms

Symptoms may include irritability, difficulty staying awake, seizures, lack of appetite, tremors, vomiting, and changes in behavior or performance. More severe forms can result in unconsciousness, blindness, hearing loss, paralysis, and death.

Causes

Shaken baby syndrome usually occurs when a parent or caregiver severely shakes a baby or toddler due to frustration or anger, often because the child won't stop crying. It is not caused by bouncing a child on a knee, minor falls, or even a ride on a shoulder.

Prevention

Prevention of shaken baby syndrome involves educating parents and caregivers about the dangers of shaking and providing strategies to soothe a crying baby and manage stress.

Treatment

Treatment for shaken baby syndrome includes immediate emergency care and ongoing medical treatment such as surgery to stop bleeding in the brain and relieve pressure.

See also

External links

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