Breath-holding is common and often happens if the child has had a sudden shock or pain, or is angry or upset. It is not voluntary (i.e. not on purpose) and can look very frightening as children can go blue or even lose consciousness. Despite this, the attacks aren’t dangerous and children will usually outgrow them by the age of 5 years.
- What to do if your baby or child has a breath-holding episode
- Some answers to common parent’s questions about breath-holding