Is Breath Holding a Sign of Autism? The Possible Connection

Breath holding can happen in kids with autism. But it is not a clear or only sign. Many kids, with or without autism, hold their breath. Studies show:

• About two thirds of kids have breath-holding episodes.
• Almost half also have hyperventilation or stomach bloating.
• Most cases start in early childhood.

Breath holding often connects to anxiety, sensory overload, or trouble talking. You should watch for other signs and talk to a doctor if you are worried.

Key Takeaways

• Breath holding happens a lot in kids and does not always mean autism. Many children do this, even if they do not have autism.
• Look for other signs of autism, like trouble with friends or doing the same things over and over, if your child holds their breath.
• Stay calm if your child holds their breath. Most breath holding spells are not dangerous and stop fast without problems.
• Help your child by making a safe place for them. Make routines, let them make choices, and use ways to help them relax to lower stress.
• Talk to a doctor if your child holds their breath a lot or if it lasts more than one minute so they can check your child.

Is Breath Holding a Sign of Autism

What Is Breath Holding

Breath holding spells happen when a child stops breathing for a short time. You might see your child gasp, turn pale or blue, or even faint. These spells often start before a child turns one year old.

Most kids stop having them by age four. Doctors talk about two main types: cyanotic (blue) and pallid (pale). Cyanotic spells usually happen when a child is angry or upset. Pallid spells often come after pain or fear.

Here are some important facts about breath holding spells:

• Most spells start in the first year and peak at age two.
• Over half of kids stop having spells by age four.
• Spells are not something your child can control.
• Triggers can be physical, like a bump, or emotional, like anger.
• Symptoms can be skin color changes, fainting, or jerky movements.
• Breathing goes back to normal quickly, even if your child faints.

You can see the main types of breath holding spells in this table:

If your child has a breath holding spell, try to stay calm. Most spells look scary but do not cause lasting harm.

Links to Autism

You may wonder, Is Breath Holding a Sign of Autism? Doctors and researchers have looked into this question. Breath holding is not used alone to diagnose autism.

This means doctors do not use breath holding by itself to say a child has autism. Still, breath holding can happen more often in children with autism than in others.

Research shows:

• Kids with neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism, have more breath holding spells than other kids.
• Children with autism may hold their breath to deal with stress, anxiety, or sensory overload.
• Breath holding can sometimes show up as a repetitive behavior during autism checks.

Some rare types of autism, like Pitt Hopkins syndrome, have unusual breathing patterns. These can include forced hyperventilation and breath holding. In these cases, breathing problems can cause serious health issues.

You might see breath holding in your child if they have trouble with:

• Emotional regulation
• Sensory processing
• Communication difficulties

Is Breath Holding a Sign of Autism? The answer is not simple. Breath holding can happen in children with autism, but it also happens in many kids without autism.

Most experts say breath holding alone does not mean your child has autism. You should watch for other signs, like trouble with social skills, repetitive behaviors, or delayed speech.

Many parents worry about breath holding and autism. Remember, breath holding spells are common in young children and are usually harmless. If you are worried, talk to your doctor for help.

Other Signs of Autism

Common Symptoms

When you look for signs of autism, you will see more than breath holding. Children with autism can act differently from other kids.

Here are some early signs you might notice:

• It can be hard for your child to calm down. They may cry or have tantrums a lot. Sometimes, it is tough to comfort them.
• Your child may not care about new things. They might ignore new toys, people, or places.
• Some kids do not point at things or make sounds to get attention.
• You may see odd body movements. Some children flap their hands or rock back and forth. Others repeat strange movements.
• Your child may play with toys in unusual ways. Sometimes, they do not play with toys at all.
• You might notice fewer facial expressions. Your child may not smile much or show many feelings.

If you see several of these signs, talk to a doctor. Getting help early can really help your child.

Breath Holding vs. Other Behaviors

You might wonder how breath holding is different from other behaviors in autism. Breath holding spells often happen when your child is upset or hurt.

These spells last less than a minute. They do not cause lasting harm. Some behaviors, like seizures, can look the same but are different.

Here is a table that shows the differences:

• Breath holding spells happen after your child feels upset. Seizures can start for no clear reason.
• Kids with breath holding spells do not have epilepsy. Seizures may mean there is a problem with the brain.

If you ask, Is Breath Holding a Sign of Autism, remember breath holding alone does not mean your child has autism. Look for other signs and talk to your doctor if you are worried.

What Parents Should Do

When to Seek Help

You may wonder when to call a doctor about your child’s breath holding. Most spells are harmless, but some situations need medical attention.

Doctors recommend you seek help if your child has their first breath-holding spell. Frequent spells—more than once a day—also need a doctor’s check.

If your child has a spell that lasts longer than a couple of minutes or seems confused afterward, you should get medical advice.

Here is a quick guide:

Some warning signs mean you need urgent help. Call emergency services if:

• Your child faints and cannot be woken up.
• Your child is stiff, shaking, or jerking.
• Your child’s lips, tongue, or face turn pale, blue, or gray.
• Breathing stops for more than one minute.

Doctors may use tests like ECG or EEG to check for heart or brain problems if spells happen often.

Home Strategies

You can help your child at home with simple steps. Try to create a calm and steady routine. Make sure your child gets enough sleep each night.

Let your child make small choices, such as picking out clothes. Praise your child for good behavior and encourage independent play. These actions build confidence and reduce stress.

Many children with autism benefit from relaxation techniques. You can teach deep breathing exercises, muscle relaxation, or gentle yoga. Mindfulness and visualization help some children feel calm. Sensory activities, like playing with soft toys or listening to music, can also help.

Joining a support group or talking with other parents can give you new ideas and emotional support. Therapists and counselors can offer more strategies for your family.

If you notice other signs of autism, such as trouble with social skills or delayed speech, ask your doctor about screening tools like the M-CHAT™ or ASQ®. Early support makes a big difference.

Breath holding is not a clear sign of autism, but you may see it in some children with autism. Most breath-holding spells do not cause long-term harm. Studies show:

• Most children with breath-holding spells grow up healthy.
• Some may have fainting or concentration problems, but their thinking skills match their siblings.

You can help by learning your child’s triggers and using calming techniques. If you notice other symptoms or feel unsure, talk to your doctor or a specialist for guidance and support.

FAQ

Can breath holding spells harm my child?

Most breath holding spells do not cause lasting harm. Your child usually recovers quickly. If spells last longer than a minute or your child does not wake up, seek medical help right away.

Should I worry if my child holds their breath often?

You should talk to your doctor if your child has frequent spells. Frequent breath holding can sometimes signal other health issues. A doctor can check for underlying problems and give you advice.

Is breath holding a sign of a seizure?

Breath holding spells and seizures look different. Seizures often happen without warning and may last longer. Breath holding spells usually follow crying or pain. If you feel unsure, ask your doctor for guidance.

How can I help my child during a breath holding spell?

Stay calm and keep your child safe. Lay your child on their side and watch closely. Do not shake or slap your child. Most spells end quickly. Comfort your child after the spell passes.