Crying and lack of breathing

[Aline]

Whenevr my 2 year old son hurt himself, he cries and goes out of breath. He remains breathless for 10-15 seconds. Sometimes, his face would slightly change color (blueish). Last time, he nearly fainted just after regaining his breathing. It scared me so much to see him like that. His pediatrician says it is a common case in infants and toddlers, and that nothing can be done. I don't buy that, I mean there must be something I could do to get him to breath quickly while crying. What do you suggest?

[National Jewish]

Your pediatrician is correct.  This is a very common event in children this age.  Sometimes these children seem to faint until they catch their breath again.  It is very frightening to observe.  Children do not usually do this for long.  Hang in there.

[bactitech]

I have to chuckle, because my mother tells me that I did the exact same thing 54 years ago. Apparently my grandmother tried to get my head under a faucet to make me breathe, as she was quite upset by the whole thing.

My mother just figured I would breathe when I was ready, and I did. My nephew, who is now 36, did the same thing. I remember him passing out on our front sidewalk. He didn't hurt himself - he was just mad about something. Obviously you have to worry about them hitting their heads. He was around 2 also, and quite headstrong. I had this trait, and I will stick my head out and predict that yours does, too. We remain headstrong into our adulthood, so I just want to prepare you :-). Just wait till he gets in his teens....

I think it goes along with the "terrible twos" and won't last long. I am not a doctor, and am just relating this story anecdotally. If you don't hyper-react, he will calm down, believe me!

Good luck.

[phibre]

A related discussion, adult male crying was started.