Doctronic navigation menu Log In
Doctronic navigation menu
Contents
  • Quick Fixes for Short-Term Hiccups
  • Medications to the Rescue
  • Alternative Therapies

Hiccup Remedies: What Really Works?

Hiccup Remedies: What Really Works?

Why It Matters

Hiccups can be more than just a nuisance, especially when they persist. Here's how you can manage and treat them effectively.
Contents
  • Quick Fixes for Short-Term Hiccups
  • Medications to the Rescue
  • Alternative Therapies

Quick Fixes for Short-Term Hiccups

For hiccups lasting less than 48 hours, simple physical maneuvers can often do the trick. Try holding your breath, sipping cold water, or biting a lemon to interrupt the hiccup reflex. These methods are easy, safe, and effective for most people.

Medications to the Rescue

When hiccups last beyond 48 hours, medications may be needed to provide relief. Proton pump inhibitors, baclofen, and gabapentin are commonly used to treat prolonged hiccups. While these medications have shown success, they are typically considered when physical maneuvers fail.
Hiccups are involuntary contractions of the diaphragm, often causing discomfort and annoyance. They can be managed with various home remedies and medications.

Alternative Therapies

For those who don't respond to standard treatments, alternative therapies like acupuncture or hypnosis might help. These methods have been reported to provide relief in some cases, offering a non-pharmacological approach to managing persistent hiccups.

FAQs

What home remedies help hiccups?

Breath holding and sipping cold water can help.

What medications treat hiccups?

PPIs, baclofen, and gabapentin are common treatments.

Can alternative therapies work?

Yes, acupuncture and hypnosis may help some people.

Are all medications safe for hiccups?

They have potential side effects, so consult a doctor.

Do hiccups need medical treatment?

Only if they persist beyond 48 hours.

Wrapping Up

Effective hiccup management often requires a combination of home remedies and medical treatments.
Curious about which hiccup remedy is right for you? Ask Doctronic for advice!
Additional References
  1. Polito NB, Fellows SE. Pharmacologic Interventions for Intractable and Persistent Hiccups: A Systematic Review. J Emerg Med 2017; 53:540.
  2. Moretto EN, Wee B, Wiffen PJ, Murchison AG. Interventions for treating persistent and intractable hiccups in adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2013; :CD008768.
  3. Rousseau P. Hiccups. South Med J 1995; 88:175.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.