Hiccups that last for a few minutes to less than 24 hours usually do not affect health and do not require treatment. However, if this phenomenon lasts more than 48 hours or recurs periodically, it is often due to an underlying medical condition.
 |
Involuntary contraction of the diaphragm causes hiccups |
Hiccups are an important reflex for the fetus while still in the womb, preparing the respiratory muscles for breathing immediately after birth. Newborns often experience hiccups as soon as they are born and begin to breathe. Hiccups also serve as a reflex of the digestive system to prevent the aspiration of amniotic fluid or to facilitate the movement of food through the esophagus.
Hiccups are involuntary and intermittent contractions of the diaphragm, caused by a sudden cessation of inhalation, with the vocal cords unexpectedly closing. A bout of hiccups typically lasts a few minutes, but can also extend for several hours or 1-2 days, and in some cases, for years. The frequency of hiccups varies among individuals, ranging from about 2 to 60 times per minute.
Hiccups lasting from a few minutes to less than 24 hours are considered temporary hiccups, primarily caused by stomach distension that stimulates the vagus nerve or diaphragm. Common causes include eating too quickly, consuming excessively hot or cold foods, spicy foods (like chili), drinking too many carbonated beverages, or excessive alcohol consumption. This form is common, typically seen in healthy individuals, does not affect health, and does not require treatment.
Hiccups lasting more than 48 hours or occurring cyclically often indicate an underlying medical condition. This type is less common but can be very uncomfortable for the patient and may have serious long-term health impacts such as depression, weight loss, insomnia, and exhaustion. Damage to the head, chest, or abdominal areas can cause prolonged hiccups. Hiccups during sleep may be due to internal organ damage; conversely, if they disappear during sleep and reappear upon waking, they could be psychological or idiopathic. A medical examination and treatment are necessary.
Treating Hiccups
Temporary hiccups typically resolve on their own after a short period and respond well to simple mechanical measures. The general aim of these mechanical measures is to increase the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood or to stimulate the vagus nerve to disrupt the nerve impulses causing hiccups. You can perform each of the following measures 3-5 times, or implement them simultaneously:
– Hold your breath for as long as possible (with a push for under 10 seconds); exhale forcefully 10 long breaths into a paper bag (or breathe into the bag). This method increases CO2 levels in the blood.
– Swallow a spoonful of vinegar or a spoonful of dry granulated sugar, chew and swallow dry bread (while holding your breath). This method stimulates the mucous membranes of the throat region.
– Startle or surprise yourself suddenly.
– Press down on the tongue, stimulating the epiglottis to activate the vagus nerve.
If hiccups persist, you need to see a doctor for a prescription.
Hiccups in Children
Virtually all healthy newborns can experience hiccups at any time, especially during the first months after birth, and this tends to decrease significantly after one year of age. Hiccups in children often occur after eating, due to the stomach stretching from too much air or food. To prevent this condition, mothers should feed their babies on schedule before they become too hungry and should avoid overfeeding.
Additionally, hiccups in children may also be caused by gastroesophageal reflux, pneumonia, or drug reactions.
Usually, no action is needed when a baby has hiccups, except when the child is very uncomfortable or when hiccups last longer than 5-10 minutes. You can pat or stroke the baby’s back to help them burp or offer small sips of sugar water (dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of sugar in 100 ml of water); or give the child something to suck or chew on.
