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Breath holding spell


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Breath holding spell

Symptoms:

  • Previous episode of breath holding
  • Exhalation followed by cessation of breathing (apnea)
  • Cyanosis (bluish discoloration of skin caused by lack of oxygen)
  • Short seizure-like movement (1 to 2 jerks)
  • Momentary unconsciousness

Signs and tests:

A history and routine physical examination may be done to rule out a physical cause of the breath holding. Because of a known association with iron deficiency, a blood test may be done. On occasion an EEG may be done, especially if it is difficult to differentiate the seizure-like movements of breath hold from an actual seizure.
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