Hiccups When Sick: What to Know

An illness can disturb the diaphragm reflex in several ways. Nausea, vomiting, bloating and swallowing air may stretch or irritate the stomach. A cough or blocked nose can change breathing and make you gulp air. Fever, sweating or poor fluid intake may leave you dehydrated, while some medicines can upset the stomach. Hiccups alone do not show which cause is present.

Pay attention to the illness alongside the hiccups: sore throat, cough, fever, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, heartburn and reduced urination each provide different clues. Stomach irritation may occur with [Gastritis](/conditions/gastritis/), while burning or a sour taste can fit [Acid Reflux](/conditions/acid-reflux/).

Rest, take small frequent sips of water or an appropriate oral rehydration drink, and eat bland small portions if you can tolerate food. Sit upright after eating and avoid fizzy drinks, rapid drinking and alcohol. If vomiting is present, pause briefly after an episode before trying tiny sips again. Follow prescribed medicine instructions and do not double a dose because hiccups are annoying.

Write down when the hiccups occur, what illness symptoms are present and any new medicine. If reflux is part of the pattern, ask a clinician whether [Acid Reflux Medication](/treatments/medical-management/acid-reflux-medication/) is appropriate for you.

Contact a clinician if hiccups continue after the illness improves, prevent sleep or fluids, or occur with worsening abdominal pain. Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, chest pain, confusion, fainting, severe dehydration, blood in vomit or stool, or a new neurological symptom such as weakness or trouble speaking.

Ask whether dehydration, stomach irritation, infection-related coughing or a medicine could be contributing. Mention your temperature pattern, fluid intake, vomiting or diarrhoea, and any medical conditions that affect digestion or breathing.