Why does my son keep holding his breath?
Breath holding is common, especially in children aged six months to six years old. When your child holds their breath, it is often called a spell. Breath-holding spells can happen after your child has had a fright or a minor accident, or when they are scolded, frustrated or very upset.
Is it normal for a child to hold their breath?
As frightening as it might be when your son holds his breath, it’s actually quite common among toddlers — and is likely to be more alarming to you than it is dangerous for him. The best response to such behavior is to make sure he is safe, keep him lying down on his side, and try to stay relaxed.
How common is breath holding spells?
Up to 5% of children experience breath-holding spells. They can occur as early as 6 months and may continue until a child is 6 years old. The peak age for breath-holding spell is 2 years. Breath-holding spells are a reflex, that is the body’s automatic response to distress.
Can breath-holding cause seizures?
No. Children with breath-holding spells do not have epilepsy. As breath-holding spells may look like epileptic seizures, the 2 are often confused. Breath-holding spells happen after your child has been frustrated, startled or hurt.
Can Breath Holding Spells be fatal?
They are most common from 1 to 3 years of age. Some children have them every day, and some have them only once in a while. Breath-holding spells are usually not serious and don’t cause lasting damage.
How do you deal with a breath holding spell?
What should I do during my child’s breath-holding spell?
- don’t panic.
- lie your child on their side and watch them.
- don’t shake your child, put anything into their mouth, or splash them with water.
- keep your child away from anything hard or sharp.
- allow the spell to stop by itself.
Can kids pass out from holding their breath?
Many young children hold their breath when upset, turn blue, but don’t pass out. This is common and normal.