If blood circulating to the body is a mix of oxygen-poor and
oxygen-rich blood, the body may not receive enough oxygen. When this happens,
the child can develop a bluish tint (cyanosis) to the skin. If your child has
"blue spells":
- Attempt to calm the child. This is the most
important thing you can do.
- Try placing the child with the knees to
his or her chest-either on the back with the knees drawn up to the chest or in
a sitting position with the chest to the knees.
- You may need to
give your child oxygen if the spells are severe and do not improve with a
change in position. Oxygen is given by placing a small tube at the entrance to
the nostrils. Your doctor will determine the proper amount of oxygen needed.
- Note when the spells occur and plan activities to try to decrease
the spells.
- Try to prevent the cyanosis by keeping your child
warm, decreasing activity, and feeding small, frequent
meals.
- Notify your child's doctor when a blue spell occurs.
