Dr. Ana Aznar
Question:
What is shaken baby syndrome and can bouncing a baby cause shaken baby syndrome? Can my 3-year-old still get baby shake syndrome?
Dr. Ana’s Answer:
Shaken Baby Syndrome is a serious brain injury that occurs when a parent or a caregiver violently shakes a baby. As the baby’s brain, neck, and skull are still immature, violent shaking can cause swelling, bruising, and bleeding in the brain. As a result, the brain can be permanently damaged, impairing the baby’s future development or even killing them.
It can be seen in children up to 5 years old, but it is more likely during the first year of life (6). It occurs most often in babies younger than six months old.
Shaken Baby Syndrome cannot be caused by tossing a baby in the air, bouncing a baby, or rough play. The force required to cause Shaken Baby Syndrome is so strong that it is very unlikely to happen by accident.
You can read more about it in this article: Shaken Baby Syndrome: Facts and Controversies
I hope this information helps. If you would like 1-2-1 support, do not hesitate to get in touch with me.
Love,
Ana
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