Breath-Holding Spells
Reviewed by the medical team of El Doctor Editorial policy
Breath-holding spells, also called sobbing spasms, are episodes in which a young child, during intense crying from anger, fright, or pain, briefly stops breathing and may change color or lose consciousness for a few moments.
How they present: after an upset, the child cries hard, holds their breath, and the skin may turn bluish or pale; the episode is usually brief and recovery is spontaneous.
When is it a good idea to have it checked? If the episodes are frequent, very prolonged, or raise doubts about their origin, it is a good idea to mention it.
Who treats it? The pediatrician is the first professional to consult and, depending on the case, may provide guidance with pediatric cardiology or neurology to rule out other causes. A calm evaluation helps families know how to act when faced with breath-holding spells.
Data on 162 doctors who treat breath-holding spells
Which specialist treats breath-holding spells?
If you have symptoms of breath-holding spells, the right specialist to see is a pediatrician. You can find and book an appointment with a certified pediatrician near you. Don't wait too long to get evaluated properly.
Treatment by city
Doctors specialized in breath-holding spells
Dr. Jose Angel Ramirez Rodriguez
Dr. Manuel Carrasco Saldivar
Dr. José Miguel López Zepeda
Dr. Patrick Pendavis Heksner
Dr. Gerardo Arturo Nava Fuentes
Dr. Gerardo Arturo Nava Fuentes
Dr. Juan Carlos Zepeda Vilagrana
Dr. Alberto Martinez Matuk
Dr. Pedro Silva Sanchez
Dr. Rocio Maily Vázquez Martínez
Dr. Alfredo Delgado
Dr. Perla Santiago Garduza
Dr. José Augusto Ortíz Mortera
Dr. Jose Carlos Licea Blanco
Dr. Amadeo Cervantes López
Dr. Adriana Miron Poumian
Dr. Kuautemok Reyes Santos
Dr. José Felipe Jaramillo Canales
Dr. Rafael Barron Ramirez
Dr. Maximiliano Elguezábal Mendoza
Frequently asked questions
What is breath-holding spells?
Breath-holding spells, also called sobbing spasms, are episodes in which a young child, during intense crying from anger, fright, or pain, briefly stops breathing and may change color or lose consciousness for a few moments.
Which doctor treats breath-holding spells?
If you have symptoms of breath-holding spells, the right specialist to see is a pediatrician. You can find and book an appointment with a certified pediatrician near you. Don't wait too long to get evaluated properly.