The skulls of infants are less developed than those of older children or adults, which is why they can easily suffer serious injuries whenever they are violently shaken. Parents who regularly leave their babies with a childcare provider should know what the signs of Shaken Baby Syndrome are so that they can obtain help for their child if any of the signs are noticed.

Mild Symptoms

Some of the milder symptoms of Shaken Baby Syndrome may appear to be related to other illnesses, and may therefore not be identified as such right away. Some things that parents should look out for include:

• Extreme irritability
• Sluggishness
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting

In some cases, the signs of Shaken Baby Syndrome may not be noticed at all. Whenever a child is repeatedly shaken, it may manifest itself as learning disabilities or behavioral issues as the child grows older.

Severe Symptoms of SBS

When an infant has been severely shaken, the signs are usually very obvious. Some things that might be noticed are:

• Loss of consciousness
• Seizures
• Difficulty breathing
• Bleeding from the eye or head area
• Paralysis
• Tremors
• Sleeping disorders
• Inability to follow objects with the eye

These signs indicate severe trauma has taken place, and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms such as these may also be accompanied by broken bones, bruises or lacerations, which further serves as proof that a baby has been violently shaken.

Possible Health Consequences

Children who have been shaken by a caregiver may suffer long-term mental and physical effects as a result. They may suffer seizures, learning disabilities blindness or have impaired motor skills. Some who are violently shaken will unfortunately die from their injuries as well.

Parents of children who have been shaken by a caregiver are normally entitled to recover damages for medical care and emotional trauma in a court of law. The responsible party could also face criminal sanctions, particularly if a child dies as a result of injuries.

How is SBS Determined?

When a child’s injuries are severe, it is normally very easy to diagnose Shaken Baby Syndrome. When injuries are rather minor, making a diagnosis can be more difficult. Doctors may need to perform x-rays to check for injuries to the head, or might also look into the back of the eyes with a special light in order to check for bleeding behind them. In any instance, getting medical attention right away is important, as it could potentially save a baby’s life, and reduces the odds that shaking will cause long-term health problems.

Get Legal Assistance

If your baby has been shaken, then you may be incurring some hefty medical expenses. Hiring a personal injury attorney is one of the best ways to recoup these expenses. Call 713-222-1222 today to schedule a free case evaluation.

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