Natural remedies for hiccups after surgery

Hiccups are repeated involuntary contractions of the breathing muscle beneath the lungs. After an operation, irritation from anaesthesia, a breathing tube, abdominal swelling, changes in eating, or some medicines can disturb the reflex. Reflux or stomach irritation can also contribute; see information on Acid Reflux and Gastritis if burning, nausea, or upper-abdominal discomfort accompanies the hiccups.

Sit upright and take calm, slow breaths. Sip water slowly rather than gulping. Eat small meals if your surgeon has allowed food, and avoid fizzy drinks, alcohol, very spicy meals, and eating close to bedtime. Do not pull your tongue, swallow large mouthfuls, breathe into a paper bag, or use choking-style tricks, especially while recovering from anaesthesia. Do not stop prescribed medicines; ask whether a medicine could be contributing and whether Acid Reflux Medication is appropriate.

Contact the surgical team promptly if hiccups continue, recur frequently, prevent fluids or medicines, disturb sleep, or make the wound painful. Seek urgent help for breathlessness, chest pain, repeated vomiting, confusion, severe abdominal pain, or a swollen abdomen. Follow your discharge instructions because the operation and your medicines affect which remedies are suitable.

Could anaesthesia, the operation, or one of my medicines be triggering the hiccups? How long should I monitor them? Which drinks and foods fit my recovery plan? What symptoms should make me call the surgical team or seek urgent care?