Resembling an epileptic fit, the sobbing spasm can be very frightening to parents. Here's what's causing it and what to do if you see it.
Some children get so angry when they experience annoyance that they swoon and pass out. Although very scary for parents, this symptom called “sob spasm” is not serious and happens to nearly 5% of children during their lifetime.
What are the signs of sob spasm?
There are several types of breath-holding spells, the blue (asphyxial) form is the most common and the so-called pale or ischemic form accounts for about 20% of cases. The other cases are variations of these two types.
In the first version, which represents about 60% of cases, the child is very upset, he screams, cries, fidgets and has more and more difficulty catching his breath. After a while, for lack of air, he can no longer emit his cry even if his mouth remains open, the child becomes more and more bluish and we say that he is "swooning". If the seizure is severe and hard, the child may go as far as losing consciousness and having rolled eyes. After a few seconds, the child comes to.
When a child presents the pale form,he does not shout. Rather, he becomes more or less intensely pale, followed by fainting.
Is it serious doctor?
Parents are understandably upset at the sight of these symptoms, but even if they are very impressive, sobbing spasms are mild and inconsequential. On the other hand, if the child simultaneously presents other symptoms such as abnormal movements of the arms and legs, if the seizures appear without there being a triggering factor and if the seizures last more than 60 seconds, it is necessary to go at the doctor.
Who gets these spasms?
It is usually children between 5 months and 3 years old who experience sobbing spasms, although it is possible to have them up to the age of 6 years. Children who suffer from it are generally anxious, lively, sometimes turbulent and often choose witnesses to their crises. When this is the case, they choose to throw tantrums in front of the most overprotective people.
Do's and Don'ts
When you face a sobbing spasm, you have to comfort your child and above all, you have to stay calm. Caress his face, refresh him with a cold washcloth and talk to him gently so he understands that what just happened is not serious. There is no need to consult a doctor if you are sure that:
- The seizure was triggered by a frustrating situation or a strong emotion.
- Loss of consciousnessonly lasted a few seconds or a few minutes at most.
- Your child quickly regained consciousness.
You can still contact Info-Santé at 811 if you are not reassured. The nurses will give you more information.
Thereafter, it is important not to try at all costs to avoid the crisis by taking the child with a grain of s alt and giving in to his slightest desires. When you feel a seizure coming, keep calm and remove objects that could hurt your child if he loses consciousness. The crises disappear quickly when the parents do not give them all the importance sought by the child. However, be sure to look for causes for the underlying emotions. Maybe your child feels worried or is afraid of something in particular. Outside of times of crisis, you will be able to study these emotions more.
The only risk of sobbing spasm is misdiagnosis and over-medication. By diagnosing false epileptic seizures, for example, or by systematically hospitalizing children, it is possible to exaggerate the symptoms and provide care that is not necessary. So take a few minutes to write down the exact course of the crisis in order to discuss it with the medical staff properly, despite your fears and your possible state of panic.
