Breath-Holding Spells

Exams and Tests

Your child's doctor can usually diagnose breath-holding spells by how you describe them and by examining your child. Record your child's symptoms to help you provide the most accurate description. You also may be asked:

• Do you have any concerns about how other people are treating your child?
• Have there been any recent changes in your child's behavior? Are you concerned about them?
• Have there been any recent changes in your child's life, such as a move or the birth of another child?
• Has your child ever been diagnosed with a medical condition?

If the doctor thinks that your child has seizures or another condition, such as a heart irregularity, seizure disorder, or iron deficiency anemia, certain tests may be done. These include:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG, EKG). An electrocardiogram records the pattern of electrical activity in the heart. It is useful for identifying heart rhythm problems and may be performed on children who have the pallid type of breath-holding spell.
• Electroencephalogram (EEG). An electroencephalogram records electrical activity in the brain. It is useful for identifying seizure disorders or other similar conditions.
• A complete blood count. The blood is analyzed to check the size, shape, and number of red blood cells.

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Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH	Last Updated: May 5, 2008
Medical Review:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics
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