Breath-holding spells in children

Telling the difference between the two types

It isn't always possible to tell the difference between a blue breath-holding spell and a reflex anoxic seizure. However, in most cases the advice will be the same reassurance and treatment for iron deficiency.

If episodes are very frequent or severe, it's worth trying to distinguish betweenthem.

The main features of a blue breath-holding spell are:

they usually occur when the child is very upset and cries vigorously
the child turns blue and stops breathing after a series of sobs where they breath out (exhale)
breathing will resume after gasping or taking an inward breath
the child may go stiff or floppy while unconscious

The main features of reflex anoxic seizures are:

they usually occur when the child has a sudden, unexpected fright or pain the trigger may not always be obvious
the childmay or may not cry or sob first
they typically go a deathly pale grey colour and collapse, losing consciousness
theyoften go stiff rather than floppy, and then gasp as they come round when their colour returns

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dez 2018

Articles for breath-holding spells in children

Introduction

Read about breath-holding spells in children, including the two different types, how to distinguish between them, and what to do if your child has a breath-holding episode.

Types of breath-holding spells

There are two distinct disorders that are called "breath-holding spells". Blue breath-holding spells Blue breath-holding spells are the most common type of breath-holding disorder, and often occur dur

Telling the difference between the two types

What to do if your child has a breath-holding spell

If your child has a blue breath-holding spell or reflex anoxic seizure, you should: stay calm it should pass in less than a minute lie them on their side don't pick them up keep an eye on them until

When to see your GP

See your GPthe first time your child has a blue breath-holding spell or reflex anoxic seizure.Your child willneed to be thoroughly examined to check whether they have a more serious underlying problem

Treating breath-holding spells

There's no specific treatment for blue breath-holding spells, but your child should have a thorough examination to check for any underlying problems, and an ECG to check for an irregular heartbeat . R

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