Breath-holding spells (BHS) are the occurrence of episodic apnea in children, possibly associated with syncope (loss of consciousness and changes in postural tone).
A good history including the sequence of events, lack of incontinence and no postictal phase, help to make an accurate diagnosis.
The most important approach is to reassure the family, because witnessing a breath-holding spell is a frightening experience for observers.
All of these studies agree with the established medical view[11][12] that a pharmacological agent is not necessary, although it may be desirable for the comfort of the parent and child.
Two articles on breath-holding spells[12][13] strongly suggest that parents consider having their child be tested by electrocardiogram for the rare, but real possibility that the BHS episodes are actually a symptom of prolonged QT-syndrome, a serious but treatable form of cardiac arrhythmia.