Shaking trauma - causes, symptoms & protective measures
Shaking trauma is a serious form of child abuse with potentially fatal consequences. Find out all about symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention measures.
Things worth knowing about "Shaking trauma"
Shaken baby syndrome is a severe form of child abuse in which an infant or toddler is shaken violently.
The shaking causes serious injuries to the brain, as the still unstable head is thrown back and forth with great force. The consequences are brain haemorrhages, swelling, nerve injuries and often also damage to the eyes (retinal haemorrhage). Just a few seconds of violent shaking can cause life-threatening damage or permanent disability.
Most affected are infants under the age of one, as they have a stillweak neck muscles and their head is very large and heavy in relation to their body. The most common trigger for a shaking trauma is persistent crying, which causes overburdened carers to use force. Typical symptoms in affected children are consciousness disorders, seizures, vomiting, breathing problems, paleness or irritability. Unfortunately, outsiders often recognise the injuries too late, as there are usually no visible injuries on the outside.
The diagnosis is based on a combination of clinical examination, imaging procedures (CT, MRI) and the patient's medical history. If a shaking trauma is suspected, immediate medical assistance must be provided, as quick action can save lives. Prevention is particularly important: awareness campaigns, parenting courses and low-threshold support services should help people to cope better with stressful situations and lower their inhibitions towards violence. Any suspicion of shaking trauma is a medical emergency and should be reported immediately.
Important facts about shaking trauma:
- Established by violent shaking of infants/toddlers
- Symptoms: Consciousness disorders, convulsions, breathing problems, vomiting
- Danger of severe damage: Cerebral haemorrhage, retinal damage, permanent disability
- Diagnosis: CT, MRI, clinical examination
- Prevention through education and support for overwhelmed parents
references
- American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). (2020). "Abusive Head Trauma in Infants and Children."
- Deutscher Kinderschutzbund (DKSB). (2021). "Information on shaking trauma."
- Adamsbaum, C. et al. (2010). "How to explore and assess the suspected abusive head trauma?" Pediatric Radiology.
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