Shaking causes the brain to move around within the skull and become bruised from hitting against bone. This bruising causes swelling, bleeding, and pressure in the brain. Blood vessels can rupture, nerves can be damaged, and the retinas in the eyes can become detached or the optic nerves scarred, which can lead to permanent blindness. Most shaken baby syndromes occur out of frustration when the parent or caregiver is trying to stop a child's crying. Others may occur from accidents or rough play such as throwing babies up in the air, holding them upside down or swinging them around.
Babies can also experience whiplash of the neck muscles.
Some parents know that they should not spank a young child or baby but do not realize that shaking them is harmful. Whiplash and shaking injuries can also result from jogging or jumping up and down with the baby. Become aware of activities that can cause injuries. Always support baby's head when holding, burping, and picking her up or laying her down. Recognize anger and frustration before the urge to hit or shake the child becomes uncontrollable.