The episode are called breath-holding spells and are relatively common in young children, usually between 6 months and 6 years .
Breath-holding spells can sometimes look like seizures, but they are different.
If it is the first episode, the event is unusual, lasts longer than expected, happens without an obvious trigger, or you are unsure what you witnessed, your child should be assessed by a doctor.
There is also an association between breath-holding spells and iron deficiency, so your doctor may consider checking iron levels.
One important thing is that the child is not choosing to hold their breath. These episodes are involuntary.
During an episode, stay calm, place your child somewhere safe, and do not shake them or put anything in their mouth.
Most children outgrow breath-holding spells as they grow.
Knowing what they look like can help parents respond calmly, and recognise when an episode needs medical attention.
FAQ
Are breath-holding spells the same as seizures?
No. Breath-holding spells are generally triggered by emotional upset, pain, or fright, whereas epileptic seizures result from abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Some symptoms can look similar, so a medical assessment is important when the cause is uncertain.
At what age do breath-holding spells usually occur?
They most commonly begin between 6 months and 2 years of age and usually become less frequent as children grow older.
What should parents do during a breath-holding spell?
Stay calm, place your child on a safe, flat surface, and protect them from injury. Do not shake your child or put anything in their mouth. Seek emergency help if your child is not breathing normally, does not recover promptly, or the episode is prolonged or unusual.