Chronic Hiccups – Its Causes and Treatment

Knowing to Chronic Hiccups – Its Causes and Treatment

Many people call hiccups as hiccoughs. Scientifically, hiccups are called singultus, which is an involuntary reaction due to the successive spasms of the diaphragm. When the diaphragm contracts, the cartilage which is attached to the base of the tongue automatically closes which produces the characteristic “hic” sound. Hiccups could happen anytime, may occur anywhere, and could last for a couple of minutes or even for several hours. But if the hiccups occur for days, it is already called chronic hiccups. Although this type of hiccups may be harmless most of the time, there are cases when chronic hiccups should be addressed and medical attention should be sought for it may require surgical intervention or prescription drugs to stop the hiccup’s occurrence.

Probable Causes of Chronic Hiccups

Hiccups are caused by several factors. In infants, hiccups are caused by sucking air during feeding. Whereas in adults, hiccups may be caused by eating fatty or spicy food, drinking carbonated drinks, excessive alcohol intake, stomach disorders or inflammation of intestines, damage of the brain due to stroke, drug abuse, use of steroids, irritation of the nerves controlling the diaphragm due to tumors, and sudden gush of emotions such as anxiety, excitement, or fear.

Hiccups could also be caused by anesthesia or it may occur after a surgical procedure due to the diaphragm’s lack of blood flow.

Techniques, Remedies, or treatment for Chronic Hiccups

Hiccups could cause discomfort and embarrassment to the person who is experiencing it that is why people are trying to find ways on how to stop or hasten its disappearance. One of the most well-known techniques is drinking a glass of water without stopping or breathing in between. Some people put sugar on their tongue or suck a sugar cube while others would breathe onto a paper bag for 20-25 times.

Another technique that you could try is breathing using a single nostril alternately. Plug or cover one nostril while breathing using the other nostril. Do this for 5 minutes or until the hiccups stop.

You could also put an ice pack over the diaphragm area and over the chest area. If none of the above mentioned techniques work, try concocting the following home remedies. Mix honey and Caster oil on a saucer and dip your finger on the mixture. Lick your finger and do this procedure every 2 minutes until the hiccups disappear. You could also squeeze half of a lemon and add ice cold water to it. Drink the juice in small sips until the hiccups stop.


Hiccups are expected to subside quickly. But if it lasts for two days or more even after trying the suggested techniques and remedies, then it is wise to consult your doctor for it may already be chronic hiccups that need special medications and require immediate medical attention. Chronic Hiccups