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 175 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. Rodrigo Armando Vigueras Santiago
Dr. Vicente de Jesus Flores Lopez
Dr. Jacqueline Montero Schwarz
Dr. Lorely Vianey Bres Ramírez
Dr. Maria Fernanda Frausto Mendoza
Dr. Karla Escobedo Vázquez
Dr. Norma Ilse Garcia González
Dr. Kim Danae Díaz Juárez
Dr. Carlos Andrés Aceves Barrios
Dr. Héctor Garza Blizzard
Dr. José Luis Lucho Hernández
Dr. Gilberto Morales Salgado
Dr. Stephany Sbheidy García Arana
Dr. Maritza Tena Medina
Dr. Miguel Ángel Martínez Benaiges
Dr. Guillermo Fojaco Villanueva
Dr. Ivette Victorino
Dr. Charles Cesar Lazo Cárdenas
Dr. Oscar Yair Nava Garcia
Dr. Sandra Herrera Rodriguez
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.