Toddler passes out when he hits his head.?

Question

My 4 year old son with down syndrome passes every time he hits his head. We are very careful with him and are extra cautious but due to his low muscle tone he trips and falls  occasionally. He has never fell from anything other then just tripping over his own feet. When he falls and hits the back of his head he cries for a few seconds, blacks out for a few seconds then usually acts like he is fine after a minute or two. However this week he has done it twice and tonight he quit breathing for about a minute after hitting his head. We called 911 and he was fine by the time they arrived and checked him out. We have taken him for many tests and x-ray's and they old us that there is no real issue. I am looking for any answer or suggestions on what to do. We got two opinions and they found no major problems. However I know this is not normal and when he stopped breathing I almost lost it. Does anyone have any idea what could be the problem?

Jen · Accepted Answer

It sounds like he is having reflex anoxic episodes - they are not uncommon in children, when they get a fright or hurt themselves (like falling over and hiting their head) they hold their breath, pass out and then recover quickly and are back to their normal selves.

Anonymous · Answer

Hi, I'm really concerned with all the scare stories published here. If something is wrong then obviously go to a doctor but panic won't help. I can't believe how irresponsible some people are. My Son turned and ran into the door frame on Saturday and had a similar experience. Gave himself a good whack, and fell over. He got up ran to me crying I picked him up to comfort him then he arched backwards screaming and holding his breath, and then passed out. It is very scary ... but this has happened to him before he has a habit of running into things! Just hold you daughter and she will come round. Perhaps as a precaution and if makes you feel better (it normally does I suppose) you should call the paramedic but she'll probably be fine by the time they arrive. Time before it happened when just my wife was present and she did panic. My Son was out for about 3 or 4 minutes. Paramedics checked him over and he was fine. A visit to the doctor is a good idea if you're worried but I'd pay more attention to see if their behaviour 'post bump' is normal. Do they walk, talk OK, eyes not glazed over/dilated etc. My Son doesn't remember a thing past bumping his head on Saturday. I am taking him to the Doctors but don't expect it to be anything other than normal reaction to a big bump on the head. I suppose the only answer is try not to let them bump their head. You can't be everywhere especially when they start running around but luckily they are very tough though. Glad she is doing good. Take care and don't worry too much. Best wishes

Lady A · Answer

Poor guy. Can you get him fitted for some kind of helmet that would minimize the impact of his falls? You might try to seek out some resources in your area that cater to special needs children and see if they have any suggestions.

pipe539 · Answer

Helmet

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Toddler passes out when he hits his head.?

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