Shaken baby syndrome is a type of severe child abuse that occurs when a caregiver violently shakes a baby or toddler. It can cause permanent brain damage or death. Shaken baby syndrome most often happens when a parent or other caregiver becomes frustrated or angry because of a baby’s crying. It can occur from as little as 5 seconds of shaking. The resulting injuries can lead to brain damage, permanent disabilities, and death. Symptoms of shaken baby syndrome may include bleeding, bruising, or swelling in the brain, bleeding in the retina, unconsciousness, seizures, breathing difficulties, extreme irritability, vomiting, and pale or blue-colored skin. Injuries that might not be immediately seen include bleeding in the brain and eyes, spinal cord damage, and fractures of the ribs, skull, legs, and other bones. Many children with shaken baby syndrome show signs and symptoms of prior child abuse. It is important to seek immediate help if you suspect your child has been injured by violent shaking.