Breath-Holding Spells

Home Treatment

Home treatment usually is all that is needed for breath-holding spells. At home you can:

• Decrease the likelihood of breath-holding spells. Make sure your child gets plenty of rest so he or she is less likely to become overly tired and easily frustrated. Also, help your child to feel secure, such as by giving him or her the chance to make simple choices and by having regular routines.
• Protect your child from injury during a spell. Some basic measures include protecting your child's head, arms, and legs from hitting something hard or sharp, and touching and talking to your child. This may also help you to stay calm. Remind yourself that the spells are not hurting your child and that your child will grow out of them in time.
• Model the anger control you wish to see your child use. Try not to overreact while the spell is going on. Corporal punishment, such as spanking, does not help manage a child's behavior.

After a spell, briefly reassure your child. Keep in mind that your child is not doing this on purpose. Don't punish your child for having a breath-holding spell.

Other children watching your child during a breath-holding spell may feel afraid. Reassure them by saying, "Everything will be okay. It is not your fault."

If your child has breath-holding spells, make sure all caregivers understand their cause and treatment. Adults who see a child during a spell may panic or try inappropriate measures to help a child. Say calmly, "My child is having a breath-holding spell. Everything will be okay in a minute or so."

Keep in mind that breath-holding spells do not:

• Interfere with your child's growth and development.
• Cause permanent brain damage.
• Lead to mental illness or emotional problems.
• Lead to seizure disorders.

Talk with your doctor if:

• Spells become more frequent or more severe or change their pattern.
• You have trouble dealing with your child's breath-holding spells. Counseling may help you handle your concerns and feelings. Do not spank your child or use other types of corporal punishment.

In general, parents who know what to expect from their children at different ages are better able to help their children learn and mature. Helping your child gain independence and self-confidence in the early years is important and may help reduce breath-holding spells. Ask your doctor for information on how to help your child gain a sense of independence, boost his or her self-confidence, and learn to handle frustration. For more information, see:

Growth and development: Helping your child build self-esteem.

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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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