Breath Holding Spells

Question 1

What are breath holding spells

Answer 1

Involuntary episodes during which a child holds their breath usually triggered by something scary or upsetting

Question 2

Age of breath holding attacks

Answer 2

6-18 months

Question 3

Types of breath holding spells

Answer 3

Cyanotic and pallid, also known as reflex atonic seizures

Question 4

What are cyanotic breath holding spells

Answer 4

Occur when the child is really upset, and crying. After letting out a long cry they stop breathing, become cyanotic and lose consciousness. Start breathing within a minute

Question 5

What are reflex atonic seizures

Answer 5

Occur when the child is startled, the vagus nerve sends strong signals to the heart that causes it to stop breathing. Child will suddenly go pale, lose consciousness and may have some muscle like twitching. Within 30 seconds heart restarts

Question 6

Management of breath holding spells

Answer 6

Not harmful long term and generally outgrow them before 4years. Exclude other pathologies and reassure parents