Breath Holding Spells In Children
Telling the difference between the two types
Source: NHS
In this topic (6)
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
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.
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 d
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
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
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