Shaken Baby Syndrome
Shaken baby syndrome is a compilation of symptoms that result from violent shaking. The following are some of those symptoms:
Symptoms: Symptoms of this syndrome include...
- decreased appetite
- poor sucking or swallowing
- heaving
- irritability
- lethargy
- convulsions
- blood pooling in eyes
- different sized pupils
- having a hard time breathing
- stops smiling
- bulging or spongy forehead
Long Term Effects:
- learning disabilities
- physical disabilities
- ribcage fractures
- chronic seizures
- deafness
- brain damage
- death: 1 out of 4 victims
Just think the things a baby is feeling as they stare to the eyes of a parent that they love as they are being forcefully shaken. Can you conceive of the fear and confusion that the baby would feel. Do not allow your baby to be a victim of SBS. 50% of victims are shaken by their natural parents. Almost 80% of the offenders are male and 60% of the victims are male.
Prevention and Coping: Becoming educated is the 1st step in prevention. Remember, NEVER, NEVER, NEVER SHAKE A BABY. When frustrations come, set him/her on the floor and leave the room. When you have completely calmed down, return to the room and tend to the baby. Try to meet the babys basic needs; feed the baby, change the diaper and burp baby. If these things don't calm the crying, use a few of these methods:
- wrap the baby in a blanket
- offer a pacifier
- walk around with or rock the baby
- get a noisy toy
- take him/her for a walk in the stroller
- ask a friend or parent (someone you trust) to watch baby for a while
Choosing to shake a baby is your choice, you are in control. You can prevent shaken baby syndrome. Do not EVER shake your baby. Do not allow one minute of anger to result in murder.
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About the Author
Chris Dunn often writes articles about birth for his pregnancy website.
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