What are hiccups?
Hiccups occur when a spasm contracts the diaphragm. The diaphragm is a large sheet of muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. This spasm causes an intake of breath that is suddenly stopped by the closing of the vocal cords. This is what makes the "hiccup" sound.
There are three types of hiccups:
- Common hiccups. These usually go away on their own within a few minutes to a few hours.
- Persistent hiccups. These last longer than 48 hours.
- Intractable hiccups. These last longer than a month.
Hiccups that last longer than 48 hours can be a sign of a more serious health problem and should be checked by a doctor.
What are the signs of hiccups?
Signs of hiccups include an in-breath that is suddenly stopped by your vocal cords closing. This closure causes a "hiccup" sound. The breath being stopped and the "hiccup" sound can't be controlled.
How are hiccups diagnosed?
If hiccups last longer than 48 hours, your doctor will do a physical exam and ask you about your health history. Your doctor may do tests to rule out a more serious problem. Sometimes a specific cause for hiccups is not found.
How are hiccups treated?
Most bouts of hiccups go away on their own within a few minutes to a few hours and do not need any treatment.
Many home remedies are used to treat hiccups. Some of these remedies include:
- Holding your breath and counting slowly to 10.
- Quickly drinking a glass of cold water.
- Eating a teaspoon of sugar.
The treatment for persistent or intractable hiccups depends on the underlying cause of the hiccups and may range from medicine to acupuncture or hypnosis. Sometimes several treatments may be tried before persistent or intractable hiccups are controlled. If you have hiccups that last a few days or longer, your doctor may do some tests to rule out a more serious problem.
How can you care for yourself when you have hiccups?
- Try these safe and easy home remedies if your hiccups are making you uncomfortable.
- Eat a teaspoon of sugar.
- Hold your breath and count slowly to 10.
- Quickly drink a glass of cold water.
- If your doctor prescribed medicine, take it as directed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
Hiccups: When to call
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have trouble swallowing and are unable to swallow food or fluids.
- You have hiccups for more than 2 days.
- You have new symptoms, such as belly pain, constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, or vomiting.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You have trouble swallowing but are able to swallow food and fluids.
- Hiccups occur often and get in the way of your activities.
- You think medicine may be causing your symptoms.
- You do not get better as expected.
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