Neurology - Breath Holding Spells Flashcards
What are breath holding spells also called?
Breath holding attacks
What are breath holding spells?
Involuntary episodes where a child holds their breath, triggered by something upsetting or scaring them
No control over breath holding spells, not harmful long term
What age do breath holding spells typically occur?
6 - 18 months
What age do most children outgrow breath holding spells?
4-5 years old
How are breath holding spells categorised?
Cyanotic breath holding spells
Pallid breath holding spells (reflex anoxic seizures)
What are cyanotic breath holding spells?
When a child is very upset, worked up and crying
After a long cry they stop breathing, become cyanotic and lose consciousness
Within a minute they wake up and start breathing
Can be tired and lethargic after episode
What are reflex anoxic seizures?
When child is startled
Vagus send strong signals to hear to stop it beating
Child suddenly goes pale, loses consciousness and seizure-like muscle twitching
Within 30 seconds heart restarts and wakes up
How are breath holding spells managed?
Exclude other pathology before diagnosis
Educate and reassure parents about breath holding spells
What have breath holding spells been linked with?
Iron deficiency anaemia
Treating anaemia can help minimise further episodes
