Breath Holding Spells

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Definition

- Reflex holding of breath in response to distress

- Blue Spells (cyanotic)

- Pale Spells (pallid)

Features

- Common in toddlers & young babies (5%)

- Often ass w toddler tantrums: reflex action

- Blue Spells

- Most common

- Upset --> cry --> breath hold --> red --> blule --> limp +/- seizure (rare)

- Pale Spells

- Scary to observe

- Upset --> breath hold --> syncope & pallor

- May be related to IDA

- May have positive family Hx

- Usually start before 18 months & cease by 6yrs

Mx

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