![Glottis in throat and lungs in chest above diaphragm, showing diaphragm spasm that causes hiccups, with detail of open glottis and closed glottis.](https://ixbapi.healthwise.net/Resource/14.2/en-us/media/medical/hw/acm3164_368x240.jpg)
Overview
Hiccups occur when a spasm contracts the diaphragm. This is a large sheet of muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. The spasm causes an intake of breath that is suddenly stopped by the closing of the vocal cords. This closure causes the "hiccup" sound.
A very full stomach can cause hiccups. This can happen from eating too much food too quickly or swallowing too much air. These hiccups will stop on their own.
Most hiccups go away on their own within a few minutes to a few hours and don't require any treatment.
Hiccups that last longer than 48 hours are called persistent hiccups. Hiccups that last longer than a month are called intractable hiccups. Both kinds of hiccups may be a sign of a more serious health problem. Tests may be needed to help find the cause.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
- Try these safe and easy home remedies if your hiccups are making you uncomfortable.
- Eat a teaspoon of sugar.
- Hold your breath and count slowly to 10.
- Quickly drink a glass of cold water.
- If your doctor prescribed medicine, take it as directed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
How can you prevent them?
- Take steps to avoid swallowing air:
- Eat slowly. Avoid gulping food or drinks.
- Chew your food thoroughly before you swallow.
- Avoid drinking through a straw.
- Avoid chewing gum or eating hard candy.
- Do not smoke or use other tobacco products.
- If you wear dentures, check with a dentist to make sure they fit properly.
- Avoid getting too full when you eat.
- Don't drink too much alcohol at one time.
- Avoid sudden changes in stomach temperature, such as drinking a hot beverage and then a cold beverage.
- Try to limit emotional stress or getting too excited.
When should you call for help?
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have trouble swallowing and are unable to swallow food or fluids.
- You have hiccups for more than 2 days.
- You have new symptoms, such as belly pain, constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, or vomiting.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You have trouble swallowing but are able to swallow food and fluids.
- Hiccups occur often and get in the way of your activities.
- You think medicine may be causing your symptoms.
- You do not get better as expected.
Where can you learn more?
Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter S495 in the search box to learn more about "Hiccups: Care Instructions".
Current as of: August 6, 2023
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.