Breath-Holding Spells

Breath-holding spells (BHS) during a temper tantrum are fairly common among young children (27% of healthy children do this, according to one study), with the greatest frequency in the second year of life.

Usually, children outgrow BHS by age 4. The best response to this form of tantrum is to ignore it. Pay positive attention to your child only when the breath-holding spell (or tantrum of any other kind) stops.

Talk to your child’s healthcare provider about this behavior, however, to make sure the breath holding isn’t due to any kind of health problem.

See also ...

•   Types of toddler tantrums

This message is not intended to provide individual medical advice. Always seek the advice of a physician or qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have about your health or medical condition, your breastfeeding issues and your infant's health. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you have read in our emails, webpages or other electronic communications.

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