My 10-mnth old boy has this habit of holding breath whenever he cries. This worries me a lot. Now, he has got cold and chest congestion and he has become very fussy, if I donot carry he holds his breath. I feel he has noticed that I jump every time he cries and is taking advantage of it. Has any one faced this kind of problem? I would also like to know what home remedies can I give for his nasal congestion and for chest congestion. He refuses to take steam. ANy kind of advice is appreciated. Thanks in advance. Ruchi replied. Hi Pia!

I have faced a similar problem with my son who is also 10 months old. but he has done this just once when he was ill. It was 2:00 Am when he develope high fever and was crying inconsolably. Suddenly his ips went blue and he became cold. later when i talked to the doc he said that he probably held hi breath and that is why lips went blue. He warned us that children at times do this to get things from parenst and told us not to pay attention whe he does this. I know this is not possible so she suggested we divert his attention to other things.

But if we show that we are getting affected by this behaviour he will do it again and again. Browsing on the net i read on this very site that lack of Iron could be a reason. I have started givcing him Vitiman Z drops on doc's advise. U could also check with your doc. But try and dont show your aggitation whe he does it agian. casue it will get difficult as he grows up. It could lead to fits as well!!!! take care and handle this very carefully.

For his cold, if he dsent take steam fom a steamer, then put on a hot shower and stand in the bathroom. this might help! Vitamin C drops or some homeopathy cold work.also ajwain wrapped in a muslin cloth, heated a little and then put on his chest also helps!!! vicks mixed with ghee or cream is another option!!

do keep in touch!! i Hope i was of some help!

take care
Ruchi