Symptoms of Abusive Head Trauma | California Child Injury Lawyer

Although certain factors may increase the likelihood that a child may become a victim of abusive head trauma (also called shaken baby syndrome), shaken baby syndrome can occur in any place, at any time, and under the care of any person.  As a result, it is important to know the common signs and symptoms of abusive head trauma and seek medical care immediately if you believe that your child may have suffered from any kind of serious injury.  While the list here is not comprehensive, it includes some of the common signs and symptoms of abusive head trauma:

• Poor feeding


• Weakness and/or a change in overall muscle tone


• Vomiting


• Trouble breathing or sudden cardiac or respiratory arrest


• Pale skin coloring


• Cool skin temperature


• Failure to thrive


• Irritability


• Decrease in alertness


• Seizures


• Swollen fontanelles (the soft spots on an infant's head)

If your child has any of these symptoms, seek medical examination as soon as possible, and remember the following facts about shaken baby syndrome when caring for your child:

1. The symptoms of shaken baby syndrome may appear together; only one symptom may be present; or no symptoms may be apparent at first.


2. In some instances, no outward signs of physical trauma, such as bruising, scrapes or other injuries, will be visible, although caregivers may notice a change in the baby's behavior.

No matter what, victims of shaken baby syndrome should receive medical treatment promptly following their injuries.  At the Keane Law Firm, child injury lawyer Chris Keane devotes his practice to ensuring that injured children receive the compensation they require to get proper medical care and heal from injuries as soon as possible.  If your child has been injured or has suffered from abusive head trauma, feel free to contact Chris Keane for free answers and information regarding your questions and unique situation.  The Keane Law Firm will compassionately and professionally work to help you in finding the right doctors and treatment for your child.

Contact Chris Keane via the web, or call 1-888-592-KIDS.