For parents, noticing anything unusual about their baby can be concerning. One such concern is baby tremors and shakes, which often leave parents confused.
According to a recent study published in the Journal of Pediatrics, almost 30 percent of newborns experience tremors. And these movements can range from subtle movements to extreme jerks involving limbs to the head. Though most of these bodily shakes are harmless and are a normal phase of development, some might be an indication of an underlying issue.
Read below this guide to learn about the signs, measures, and when to worry about baby tremors and shakes. Also learn about the causes behind such body movements and why it happens.
Causes of Baby Tremors and Shakes
Baby tremors and shakes are usually a part of neurological development in babies. These movements are a natural part of the process while your newborn’s nervous system is still in its maturing phase. Here are some of the most common reasons why babies experience tremors and shakes.
Immature Nervous System
Since the baby’s nervous system is not yet fully developed, their brain might send mixed signals to the muscles, which may result in tremors.
Hunger or Fatigue
Hunger or tiredness is another reason why babies may show movements in their limbs or arms to indicate it. Babies even show they’re hungry or overtired by crying.
Changes in Temperature
Babies are sensitive to temperature changes. Movements like shivering or termbling can occur if they feel cold.
Diaper Changes
Shaking or tremors may be a sign the baby needs a diaper change. If this is the cause, your newborn will probably shake every time you change its diaper.
Other Causes
Some of the other reasons behind shaking or trembling movements in babies are caffeine in milk, low blood sugar levels, neurological disorders like epilepsy, or Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome. If you suspect such reasons, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Signs When To Worry
While baby shakes and tremors are generally harmless, one out of every 1,000 cases can indicate an underlying medical condition. Here are the signs when you need to be alarmed:
Frequent Tremors for a Prolonged Period
If you notice frequent body tremors in your baby for a prolonged period and without any possible trigger, you must consult a pediatrician immediately.
Persistent Symptoms
Symptoms such as tiredness, irritability, lethargy, poor feeding, or improper eye movements can be an indication of a serious underlying issue.
Family History
If there is a family history of neurological disorders, there are high risks of severe medical conditions.
Seizures vs. Body Tremors
While it’s easy to get confused with signs of seizures, body tremors are completely different from seizure movements. Here are the signs that may indicate seizures in your baby.
- Abnormal body movements
- Similar movements at regular intervals
- Rhythmic pattern of movements
- Uncontrollable shaking or trembling
- Changes in breathing patterns and facial expressions.
Takeaway
While baby tremors are common in babies as a part of their normal development, they can be a cause for concern for parents. If you suspect any abnormal symptoms, it may be a sign of an underlying health complication. In such cases, it is best to get immediate medical attention.
