Effects of hiccups

A hiccup is a sudden involuntary contraction of the diaphragm followed by quick closure of the voice box. Airflow changes create the familiar sound. Eating quickly, a full stomach, fizzy drinks, alcohol, sudden temperature changes or emotional excitement can trigger short episodes.

Repeated hiccups may make swallowing uncomfortable and can leave the chest or upper abdomen sore from repeated muscle contractions. Ongoing hiccups can also cause tiredness, dehydration or difficulty taking medicines. Reflux or stomach irritation can sometimes accompany recurrent episodes; see information on Acid Reflux and Gastritis for related digestive symptoms.

Sit upright, breathe slowly and take small sips of water. Eat slowly, choose smaller meals and avoid fizzy drinks or other personal triggers while an episode is active. Keep track of when hiccups begin, what you ate or drank, and whether heartburn, nausea or abdominal discomfort occurs.

Do not rely on frightening or forceful tricks that could make you choke. If episodes keep returning, a clinician can review medicines and digestive symptoms; treatment may include addressing reflux, with Acid Reflux Medication discussed when appropriate.

Arrange medical advice if hiccups continue long enough to interfere with sleep, meals, drinking, speaking or breathing, or if they repeatedly return without an obvious trigger. Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, fainting, new confusion, severe chest pain, or inability to swallow fluids.

Could reflux, stomach irritation or a medicine be contributing? What warning signs should I watch for? Which treatments are suitable if hiccups disturb sleep or eating?