Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Hiccups occur when a spasm contracts the diaphragm. The diaphragm is a large sheet of muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. This spasm causes an intake of breath that is suddenly stopped by the closing of the vocal cords. This is what makes the "hiccup" sound. There are three types of hiccups: Hiccups that last longer than 48 hours can be a sign of a more serious health problem and should be checked by a doctor. Many things can cause short bouts of hiccups that go away on their own (common hiccups). These can include: Hiccups that last more than 48 hours (persistent hiccups and intractable hiccups) can be caused by: Most bouts of hiccups go away on their own within a few minutes to a few hours and do not need any treatment. Many home remedies are used to treat hiccups. Some of these remedies include: The treatment for persistent or intractable hiccups depends on the underlying cause of the hiccups and may range from medicine to acupuncture or hypnosis. Sometimes several treatments may be tried before persistent or intractable hiccups are controlled. If you have hiccups that last a few days or longer, your doctor may do some tests to rule out a more serious problem. Current as of: August 6, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Current as of: August 6, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
Hiccups
Condition Basics
What are hiccups?
What causes them?
How are hiccups treated?
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All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: August 6, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review BoardHiccups
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.