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Overview
Common between 6 months and 6 years.
Low iron can play a role.
When to get medical care
Call 911Not breathing after a minute, or seizure.
Get care todayFirst episode.
See a doctor soonFrequent spells.
Causes
Caused by crying and reflexes.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause child holds breath while crying and turns blue or pale. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Breath-holding spellsSee a doctor if it doesn't get better
A young child holds their breath while crying or upset and turns blue or pale, and may briefly pass out.
What you can do at home
- Lay the child on their side.
- Stay calm.
Medicines
Iron if low.
At the doctor
Diagnosed by history.
Questions you may be asked
- Episodes
The exam
A physical exam.
Tests
- Iron test
- ECG
Prevention
Stay calm.
- Consistent routines
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.