What should I do about hiccups?

ACS Answer

Hiccups happen when the diaphragm (the main muscle used in breathing) suddenly contracts between normal breaths. Hiccups can be caused by irritation of the nerve that controls the diaphragm, or by excess air in the stomach.

What to do

• Breathe slowly and deeply into a paper bag for 10 breaths at a time.
• Drink water slowly.
• Hold a teaspoon of sugar in the mouth and then swallow.

Do not

• Ignore the hiccups
• Force yourself to eat (it may cause vomiting)

Call the doctor about any of the following symptoms

• Hiccups that last for more than 1 day
• Trouble breathing
• A puffy or bloated stomach

Related Resources

Find books that cover this and other cancer topics at the American Cancer Society bookstore.

Recommended Consultation

You should consider discussing this topic with your doctor or health care team.

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