What should you know about hiccups after chemotherapy treatment?

A hiccup is an involuntary spasm of the diaphragm followed by a brief closure of the voice box. After chemotherapy, possible contributors include medicines given with treatment, changes in digestion, acid reflux, abdominal fullness, dehydration or irritation around the diaphragm. The timing and accompanying symptoms help the care team work out the likely cause.

Short-lived hiccups may settle, but repeated episodes can interfere with eating, drinking, sleep and speaking. They are not a reliable sign that a particular cancer is present or progressing. Tell the oncology team about the symptom so they can review recent medicines and other causes.

Record when the hiccups began, how long each episode lasts and whether they follow food, medicines or lying down. Take small sips of fluid if swallowing is comfortable, eat slowly and remain upright after meals. Do not stop prescribed treatment or take a new remedy without checking with the oncology team; they may adjust a contributing medicine or prescribe relief.

Seek urgent medical help if hiccups occur with trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, fainting, repeated vomiting or inability to keep fluids down. Contact the oncology team soon when episodes continue, prevent sleep or make eating and drinking difficult, because dehydration and medicine effects may need attention.

Could any recent chemotherapy or supportive medicine be contributing? Should my medicines be changed? What symptoms would make this urgent? How can I maintain fluids and nutrition if hiccups continue?