Some babies and young children sometimes cry so hard that they block their breathing and pass out. These spasms of sobbing leave them no consequences, but they are still very difficult for those around them.

Specialists are still struggling to explain the mechanisms behind this reaction, which manifests itself in around 5% of children, most often between 5 months and 4 years old. One thing is certain, no neurological, respiratory or cardiac problem is involved. It is not an epileptic seizure either. We should rather see behind these losses of knowledge consecutive to crying a reflex, psychosomatic phenomenon.

The sobbing spasm always manifests itself during a heavy crying attack. It could be crying of anger, pain, or fear. The sobs become so intense, so jerky, that the child can no longer catch his breath. His face turns all blue, his eyes roll back, and he loses consciousness briefly. He may also convulse.

The lack of oxygenation due to fainting is very brief, the fainting itself rarely lasts more than a minute. So don’t worry, the loss of consciousness concluding a sobbing spasm is never serious, it leaves no consequences. No need to call the fire department or go to the emergency room. There is nothing special to do. Your child will always come back to him anyway, even without any outside help. No need therefore, if he stops breathing, to shake him, to put him upside down or to try to resuscitate him by practicing mouth-to-mouth.

After a first sob spasm, simply make an appointment with your pediatrician. After having questioned you about the circumstances of the incident and having examined your little one, he will make a precise diagnosis, will be able to reassure you and advise you on what to do in the event of possible recurrence.

It’s a lot to ask in this kind of situation, but the priority is to keep your cool. To help you do this, tell yourself that your child is safe. Take him in your arms, this will prevent him from falling and bumping if he loses consciousness, and talk to him softly. Perhaps he will be able to calm down and catch his breath before going to the point of syncope. Otherwise, don’t beat yourself up. Even though you feel like your actions and words weren’t calming enough to keep him from passing out, they still helped him get through this emotional storm.

There is no preventive treatment. Recurrences are frequent but they will become less frequent as your child grows and will be able to better regulate his emotions. In the meantime, try not to give the sob spasm more importance than it deserves. At least in front of your toddler. Did the vision of your inanimate child confuse you? Did you fear for his life? There is nothing more natural. Do not hesitate to confide in a loved one, or even their pediatrician. But in his presence, do not change anything. No question of saying yes to everything for fear that he does again a sobbing spasm.

Homeopathy can however have its utility to act on its particularly emotional or anxious ground. A consultation with a homeopathic doctor will help define the most suitable treatment.