Hiccups after endoscopy: what to know

During an upper endoscopy, air or gas may be used to open the digestive tract so the clinician can see clearly. The throat and upper digestive tract can also feel irritated afterward. Either effect may stimulate the nerves linked with the diaphragm and cause hiccups, burping, bloating, or a scratchy throat. Sedation, a recent meal, or reflux may add to discomfort. Mild symptoms that gradually settle can be part of recovery, but the procedure team knows which findings and medicines apply to your examination.

Follow the discharge instructions about eating, drinking, and medicines. Once you are allowed fluids, take small sips of water and avoid gulping, fizzy drinks, and alcohol while your throat and stomach settle. Stay upright and rest as directed, particularly if sedation was used. Do not drive or make important decisions until the advised sedation period has passed. If hiccups continue, contact the endoscopy unit or your clinician and describe when they began, whether swallowing is comfortable, and any pain or vomiting.

Seek urgent medical help for severe or worsening chest or abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, inability to swallow saliva or fluids, repeated vomiting, vomiting blood, black stools, fever, fainting, or marked abdominal swelling. Contact the procedure team promptly if hiccups persist, worsen, or prevent drinking and sleeping. These symptoms can need assessment after an invasive procedure even when the hiccups began soon afterward.

Could swallowed air or irritation explain this? Were any findings or medicines likely to worsen reflux? When should I restart regular food and medicines? Which symptoms require the emergency department rather than a routine call?