Apparent Life-Threatening Event Syndrome: Stress Disorder in Children

When a child has been exposed to life changing events, such as that which occurred on September 11^th, 2001, it is not uncommon for a health complication to set in. Because children do not possess the life experiences of many adults, they are often unable to cognitively and psychologically process the events and incorporate them, smoothly, into memory.

When complications from a life threatening event, of any kind, occur, a child will often develop a physical complication known as "Apparent life-threatening event syndrome", ALTE. In the development of ALTE, it may take many months or years for the complications to present, often leaving parents and health professionals confused as to the initial diagnosis.

Apparent life-threatening event syndrome involves symptoms that may occur suddenly, or take many years to develop. Such complications may include digestive complications, neurological complications, cardiac and even the development of metabolic disorders. In some cases, the child may simply stop breathing, lose oxygen and fall unconscious without any explanation or prior warning that ALTE has developed.

Even very young children, as in those who are only a few weeks old, can feel the effects of their environment and experience ALTE. In fact, some pediatricians now believe that infants who suddenly pass away from SIDS may, in fact, be affected by some form of Apparent life-threatening event syndrome.

As a parent, if your child, of any age, has experienced a life threatening complication, it is important to watch for the early warning signs. One of the first signs you may seen in a child who is at risk for ALTE is the development of sleep apnea and this constant and recurring need to gag or cough excessively. Usually, these behaviors go on for several months before the diagnosis of ALTE is made.

If you child has been diagnosed with ALTE, you will want to first obtain CPR certification in order to be prepared for any anticipated complications that may develop. Secondly, if a health complication has development, such as an endocrine disorder or cardiac complication, seek medical attention specific for that complication. Psychotherapy is also essential to assisting your child in working through the life event which may have triggered the development of ALTE. Even very young children and toddlers can benefit from child therapy for ALTE complications.

As with any sudden and traumatic event, we often first think of the impact that event has upon our own lives and then think of the impact on our children. Even if your child does not exhibit complications right away, an Apparent life-threatening event syndrome is most likely developing and will manifest as physical symptoms for which there is no known cause or origin. When concerned, speak with your child's pediatrician about the possible treatment options for ALTE.