Breath holding spells most often occur when a child becomes suddenly upset or surprised. The child makes a short gasp, exhales, and stops breathing. The child's nervous system slows the heart rate or breathing for a short amount of time. Breath holding spells are not thought to be a willful act of defiance, even though they often occur with temper tantrums. Symptoms can include: Blue or pale skin Crying, then no breathing Fainting or loss of alertness (unconsciousness) Jerky movements (short, seizure-like movements) Normal breathing starts again after a brief period of unconsciousness. The child's color improves with the first breath. This may occur several times per day, or only on rare occasions...Consult nearest pediatrician they will do the needful