Abusive Head Trauma is a serious and preventable injury that happens when a baby’s head is shaken violently or suffers blunt impact. It can cause severe brain damage, lifelong disabilities, or even death. Babies are especially at risk because their neck muscles are weak, and their brains are still developing.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics: Abusive head trauma is a leading cause of fatal head injuries in children under 2 years old. Roughly 1,300 children in the U.S. suffer from abusive head trauma each year, with one-quarter of them dying as a result of their injuries.
Abusive Head Trauma can lead to:
- severe brain injury
- bleeding in the brain or eyes
- seizures
- long-term developmental delays.
Why Does It Happen?
Abusive Head Trauma often occurs when a caregiver becomes frustrated, especially if a baby won’t stop crying. Crying is a normal part of a baby’s growth, but it can feel overwhelming. It’s important to remember that shaking a baby is never the answer.
Signs of Abusive Head Trauma
If you suspect a baby has been shaken, call 911 immediately. Victims of abusive head trauma may show one or all of the following signs and symptoms:
- Irritability
- Lethargy (trouble staying awake)
- Trouble breathing
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Decreased alertness
- Coma (unable to be awakened)
For more information on signs:
How to Prevent Abusive Head Trauma
Understand Crying is Normal
Crying is how babies communicate. It doesn’t mean a caregiver is doing something wrong. Some babies cry more during certain stages, like the “purple crying” phase, which is a normal part of development.
If baby is warm, dry and well fed but the crying won’t stop, try these calming methods from the American Academy of Pediatrics, HealthyChildren.Org:
- Rocking, either in a rocking chair or in your arms as you sway from side to side
- Gently stroking their head or patting their back or chest
- Safe swaddling (wrapping them snugly in a receiving blanket)
- Singing or talking
- Playing soft music
- Walking them in your arms, a stroller or a carriage
- Rhythmic soft noise and vibration
- Burping them to relieve any trapped gas bubbles
- Warm baths (most babies like this, but not all)
Know When to Take a Break and When to Seek Help
If a caregiver feels overwhelmed:
- Place baby in a safe spot, like their crib, and step away for a few minutes.
- Take deep breaths or listen to calming music.
- Call a friend or family member.
- Reach out to Pediatrician for advice on soothing techniques
- Call a Hotline like the National Parent Helpline (855.427.2736) for emotional support.
- Call or text a counselor at 800.422.4453 or visit: https://www.childhelphotline.org/. They have counselors available 24/7 to answer questions, provide resources & support, and talk through difficult situations.
Build a Support Network
Parenting can be tough, and it’s okay to ask for help. Share caregiving duties with trusted partners, family, or friends.
Educate Others
Make sure anyone who cares for baby—like babysitters, family members, or daycare providers—knows the dangers of shaking a baby. Share tips with them and emphasize the importance of staying calm.
How Can Friends and Family Help?
The CDC recommends friends, family members, and community members be aware of new caregivers in the family or community who may need help or support.
- Offer to give a caregiver a break when needed.
- Encourage caregivers to take a break if needed while the baby is safe in the crib.
- Be sensitive and supportive in situations when caregivers are dealing with a crying baby.
- Support work policies that make it easier for working parents to stay with their infants during the period of increased infant crying (i.e., between 4-20 weeks of age).
For more resources and information:
Responding to your baby’s cries: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/crying-colic/Pages/Responding-to-Your-Babys-Cries.aspx
About Abusive Head Trauma: https://www.cdc.gov/child-abuse-neglect/about/about-abusive-head-trauma.html
Preventing Abusive Head Trauma: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-home/Pages/Abusive-Head-Trauma-Shaken-Baby-Syndrome.aspx
