Shaking Baby Syndrome (SBS)

Shaking Baby Syndrome (SBS), also called Shaken Baby Syndrome, is one of the leading killers of infants. Sadly, it's also 100% preventable.

Until a newborn's neck muscles are stronger, they are extremely vulnerable to mishandling. There is a line that, if crossed, is irreversible. Every parent should know where that line is.

A shaking baby develops a swelling of the brain that cannot be treated or reversed. This sad consequence can lead to serious health problems and almost half of these situations end in death.

There will be times when you want to scream in frustration. Your little bundle of joy has been crying for what seems like hours and you don't know what he needs. Do not touch your baby when you are angry or upset. Violent shaking is NEVER an appropriate way to express frustration.

Walk away and compose yourself first, then go and comfort him. If you're close to your breaking point, switch off with your spouse. If you are by yourself, set him down and walk into another room to gain your composure before returning. Set yourself up for success before these situations happen.

Although normal playtime, like knee bouncing, has not been linked to Shaking Baby Syndrome, it is best to avoid such activities until he is older. Air tossing and other sharp movements should be delayed until he is old enough to hold up his head by himself.

{Iris Photography ~ Nichole Manner}

Suggestions to Soothe
a Baby Crying

If your baby is howling to wake the neighbors, here are some things you can try to soothe him.

Using white noise, or other rhythmic noises like a vacuum cleaner, hair dryer, clothes dryer, or running tub. These constant noises can mimic the constant sounds heard inside the womb.
Position the baby on his left side, which helps in digestion, or on his tummy while you are holding him.
Sucking on something can satisfy your infant's reflex. Allow the baby to nurse, bottle-feed, or use a pacifier to "pacify" this natural need.
Swaddle the baby tightly in a blanket. The close, tight fabric again mimics the feeling of security he had inside the womb.
Swinging, rocking, or other gentle movement (like a car ride) will mimic the motion he felt inside the womb.
Try giving him infant gas drops. If he's gassy, they'll provide instant relief.

Misdiagnosis of Shaken Baby Syndrome

Shaking Baby Syndrome can unfortunately be frequently misdiagnosed. Some of the less dramatic symptoms of lethargy, irritability, poor sucking or swallowing, decreased appetite, or vomiting are often attributed to other things.

This allows the root cause (frustrated parents or caregiver) left untreated, keeping the doorway for re-injury wide open. Unless the doctor has cause to suspect SBS, it is often misdiagnosed as a mere viral illness or colic. This re-traumatization and misdiagnosis may be one reason why nearly half of all shaking baby cases end in death.

Why is My Baby Always Crying?

Crying is the only tool your baby has of expressing himself. The difficult and frustrating part of the constant crying is the understanding that you are supposed to be able to figure out what he is trying to say. Try using this checklist to determine what might be upsetting him.

Is his diaper dirty? Does he need to be changed?

{Photo by Lance McCord}
Is he hungry?
Is there something on his clothing that is pinching or poking?
Is he too warm or too cold? (Feel his skin.)
Does he just need to to be soothed? Look at the list above for tips.
Is he laying in an uncomfortable position (is his head lower than his feet)?
Does he just need to be cuddled?
Does he have a bubble and needs to be burped?
Does he have a fever or other signs of illness?
Is he teething? Does he need relief? Are his gums swollen and red?
Does he seem gassy and fussy? Perhaps you should try a different bottle, formula, or analyze what you ate for dinner for possible triggers.

If all of these things fail to soothe, set an appointment to speak with your doctor. It's possible your little one has acid reflux or other physical ailment that can be easily treated with prescription drugs or natural remedy.

Although you may have patience for your baby's cries, other people may not. Always double check that the people you are leaving your baby with understand and can handle his temperament. Part of loving your baby is making sure that he is well care for - even when he is not in your presence.

A moment's mistake can lead to a lifetime of sorrows.

Shaking Baby Syndrome is entirely avoidable. Knowing your limits and using your resources will prevent the new-parent-stress-outs that could end in such tragic results.