Shudder attacks (also called "shuddering attacks" or benign paroxysmal torticollis in infants, or shuddering episodes in older children and adults) generally have a good outlook, and in most cases they do go away over time — but the specific answer depends on the type and underlying cause.
In infants and young children: Shuddering attacks are brief episodes of rapid shivering-like movements, often affecting the head, shoulders, and arms, usually lasting only a few seconds. They're sometimes linked to essential tremor (which may run in families) or benign paroxysmal torticollis. These episodes are considered benign and most children outgrow them by early-to-mid childhood, often by ages 3 to 5, though some children may go on to develop essential tremor or migraines later in life.
In older children and adults: Shuddering episodes that resemble tics or brief tremor-like movements can also resolve on their own, particularly if they're related to a self-limited condition like a passing illness, fatigue, stress, or low blood sugar. However, if shuddering is a symptom of an underlying chronic condition (such as essential tremor, certain seizure disorders, or a movement disorder), it may persist unless the root cause is treated or managed.
When they might not fully resolve: If shudder attacks are tied to conditions like epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, or other neurological disorders, they may continue or recur unless managed with medication or other treatment. In these cases, the attacks may lessen in frequency or severity with proper treatment rather than disappearing completely.
Because "shudder attack" can describe different things depending on age and cause, it's important to have a healthcare provider or pediatric neurologist evaluate the specific type of episode. They can confirm the diagnosis with a physical exam, medical history, and sometimes an EEG to rule out seizures, and give a more personalized outlook and treatment plan if needed.