Causes of prolonged hiccups in adults. Prolonged hiccups

All people sometimes experience hiccups - these are unpleasant convulsive contractions of the diaphragm, causing an attack, are known to every person. Why we hiccup, what hiccups are and why they appear suddenly, interests many who are familiar with them firsthand. After all, attacks sometimes last a long time, and this causes discomfort not only to the hiccupper, but also to those around him. Where hiccups come from and how to get rid of them is the topic of this material.

Mechanical process

The occurrence of the attack in question is physiological process, which can appear against the background of contraction of the diaphragm. The causes of hiccups lie in the load on the vagus nerve. It is in any human body, and innervates muscles throughout the body and mucous membrane. The vagus nerve connects the actions of internal organs with the central nervous system. It is located in the chest and through a small hole in the diaphragm goes into the peritoneum to the organs. The diaphragm consists of muscles and tendons; its septum is too narrow. If everything is not in order with the nerve, then it sends commands to the brain and the diaphragm begins to contract, while the glottis closes and an unpleasant sound occurs - this is hiccups.

Causes of attacks

In an adult, hiccups occur due to factors in which he himself takes part and due to various diseases. Causes in adults not related to disease are as follows:

• Hasty eating. When eating food quickly, large, unchewed pieces often enter the stomach, which injure and irritate the vagus nerve.
• Binge eating. Large amounts of food stretch the stomach, and it touches the diaphragm, irritating it.
• Eating in an awkward position. It is required to eat only while sitting and at the table, otherwise the nerve is compressed and the diaphragm begins to contract convulsively.
• Dry food. Too hot or cold food and drink, as well as dry food, lead to the occurrence of the attack being studied.
• Fright. If a person suddenly gets scared, he takes a sharp breath, causing the diaphragm to become irritated.
• Drinking carbonated drinks. If you drink soda in large quantities, the stomach becomes full and, as a rule, pressure on the vagus nerve occurs.
• Microtrauma vagus nerve . If the nerve is injured, the diaphragm begins to contract to get rid of the injury, which causes an attack.
• Alcohol abuse. . Toxins cause the liver to become enlarged and the muscles to relax. That's why a drunk person often hiccups.
• . What can cause hiccups in a smoker? There are many reasons for its appearance: weakening of the sphincter, leading to the release of acid into the esophagus and irritation of the diaphragm, poisoning by combustion products, absorption of smoke along with air.

Hiccups occur due to hypothermia. This phenomenon especially concerns young children. The symptom in question may appear if a person is stressed.

Hiccups due to illness

Normal hiccups go away on their own and do not require medical intervention. Constant hiccups when it lasts more than two days, it requires a visit to the doctor, examination and treatment. In adults, there may be reasons for prolonged hiccups. Why a person hiccups for too long, the reasons lie in the following:

• Hypermotor dyskinesia. Gastric contents constantly irritate the esophagus, provoking attacks. In addition, there are other symptoms: coughing and neck muscle tension.
• Hernia in the diaphragm. Hiccups as a result of this diagnosis may occur immediately after eating or changing body position. Sometimes it is accompanied by mild pain behind the sternum and in the abdomen. As a result of the development of a hernia, internal organs are displaced, causing shortness of breath and rapid heart rhythms.
• Pulmonary dysfunction. In addition to hiccups, people begin to experience hair loss, drowsiness and constant yawning.
• Cervicothoracic radiculitis. The roots are affected spinal cord, the tone of the diaphragm increases and the liver moves downwards. Prolonged hiccups accompanied by discomfort in the throat, a lump is felt that cannot be swallowed.
• Disturbances in the functioning of the central nervous system. This may be due to the development of a tumor, injury and infection. Why does chronic hiccups occur - it is caused by a stroke, multiple sclerosis, meningitis, encephalitis.
• Intracranial pressure. In this case, hiccups are diagnosed as severe and painful. Lasts quite a long time.
• Gastrointestinal pathology. Problems with the bile excretory system, gastritis, pancreatitis, ulcers and other diseases.
• Oncology. Cancerous tumors lungs, esophagus, stomach and pancreas, liver.

Such diseases force. It exhausts the hiccupper, exhausts and weakens the body, even leading to psychological disorder. It is impossible to diagnose these diseases by hiccups alone, but it helps to recognize serious illness during.

There may be other causes that are not related to the disease. For example, during chemotherapy or after anesthesia. During some surgical operations involving the respiratory system, unpleasant consequence is precisely hiccups.

Psychosomatics of hiccups

If an attack occurs without visible reasons, then this phenomenon is associated with the emotional state of a person. Psychosomatics is the reason why a person hiccups. It indicates that a person has developed an unhealthy attachment to something. The object of close attention can be either another person or another living creature, as well as computer games, food and much more. Here you need to be treated by a psychotherapist.

Getting rid of seizures

• Drink a glass of cool water in small sips.
• Breathe deeply and do not exhale as long as possible.
• Inhale more air and exhale it into the paper bag. Take your next breath from this bag. Increased content carbon dioxide it can stop contractions of the diaphragm.
• Chew a slice of lemon.
• Morning hiccups can be eliminated by drinking a glass of lemon water on an empty stomach.
• Take your tongue by the tip and pull it forward or down.
• Swallow a little crushed ice or chew a crust of bread.

Many people find that sedatives help, especially if the hiccups are psychosomatic in nature. Tinctures used: valocordin, corvalol, St. John's wort, motherwort - drink 15-20 drops.

Hiccups associated with the presence of any disease can be cured after the patient gets rid of the root cause. To do this, you need to undergo an examination, and specialists will prescribe correct treatment, including symptomatic.

It will also be interesting to see: Hiccups - causes and treatment. How to get rid of hiccups

Drug treatment is presented as follows:

• Antispasmodics– they eliminate involuntary contractions of the diaphragm and pain. These drugs relax muscle tone, normalize the functioning of organs and blood supply. These include No-shpa, Spasmonet.
• Inhibitors– drugs are used to treat ulcers and normalize acidity in the gastrointestinal tract – Omeprazole.
• Cerucal– block and relax the tone of the gastrointestinal tract muscles. Prevents hiccups and prevents reflux.
• Scopolamine– neurological remedy, calms and relaxes muscle tone, has antiemetic properties.
• In case of violations nervous system- sedatives and relaxants. Haloperidol – helps with prolonged attacks, nausea and vomiting.

There are many medications to eliminate hiccups, but only a doctor, and not the patient himself, should prescribe treatment, so as not to worsen his condition. Most medications have contraindications and side effects, which can only aggravate the situation - in this case, contribute to the development of complications of the disease.

Hiccups can be caused by many reasons. If it goes away within 5-15 minutes, then there is no need to worry. When she suffers from frequent and prolonged attacks, you need to contact specialists for a thorough examination.

Hiccups are convulsive contractions of the diaphragm that take on the character of shocks. They are manifested by brief breathing movements and a fairly sharp protrusion of the abdomen. Hiccups in adults and children can be assessed as long-lasting, short-lived, or may have varying degrees intensity.

Briefly about the symptoms

It is not at all difficult to identify the presented phenomenon, and therefore experts pay attention to certain symptoms from the very beginning of the process. Thus, strong and less intense hiccups are accompanied by a sharp contraction of the diaphragm, which is accompanied not only by short breaths, but also by a synchronous protrusion of the sternum.

Further, attacks of hiccups in adults and children are associated with certain strangled sounds. In turn, they are associated with a sharp passage of air masses that pass through a closed glottis. It is thanks to the presented symptoms that it is possible to identify hiccups, but an equally important question is why it occurs, appears and whether it is possible to cure it - all this will be discussed further.

Causes of hiccups in adults

Attacks of hiccups in children and adults always have clear reasons for their formation. First of all, I would like to draw attention to the reasons that provoke the development of the condition in healthy person. It's about quick consumption. significant amount food, which is directly related to overstretching of the stomach. Next, you should pay attention to eating any food dry, that is, without drinking enough water.

The next factor is the consumption of alcoholic beverages, as well as hypothermia. Most rarely, hiccups, the causes of which are unknown, appear spontaneously. In this case, it passes in a few minutes, but can be repeated within a certain number of days. If this is a concern, it is strongly recommended that you consult a specialist.

First of all, we are talking about infections that can provoke a complication of the cerebral cortex - encephalitis. Experts note that this occurs due to measles, chicken pox, rubella, and influenza. Separately, I would like to draw attention to malaria and toxoplasmosis.

The first of the conditions is an infectious disease, which is accompanied by high temperatures, chills and changes in the size of the liver. It is strongly recommended to consider the causes of malaria very carefully. Speaking about toxoplasmosis, experts identify the disease as an infectious manifestation. It is associated with an increase in temperature and a change in the size of some internal organs. In addition, headaches and nausea are noted.

The causes of hiccups may be associated with infections that are complicated by a condition such as meningitis. We are talking about meningococcal infections, syphilis, mumps, and rubella. In some cases, the causes of hiccups are due to previous traumatic brain injuries. Another development factor can be called hysteria, which is mental illness, as well as certain mental disorders. We can talk about depression and manic-depressive syndrome.

In addition, hiccups appear as a response of the body to certain diseases of the nervous system. In this regard, experts identify:

1. neoplasms in the brain and spinal cord;
2. multiple sclerosis;
3. demyelinating diseases, that is, those in which myelin is damaged as a result of something.

These are the main development factors that cause the described condition. Below we will present some additional reasons, as a result of which the formation frequent hiccups or constant hiccups.

What else causes hiccups?

A variety of phenomena deserve special attention, namely neoplasms in the lung area, any form of pleurisy, damage to the diaphragm area and neuritis.

No less often, the answer to the question of why hiccups occur lies in the development of compression of the phrenic nerve by a mediastinal tumor. In addition, GERD, intolerance to some type of food, or even an allergic reaction can affect this.

A condition appears as the body’s response to diaphragmatic hernia, inflammatory process in the stomach area. In addition, dyspepsia is a likely factor, peptic ulcer stomach or duodenum, as well as cholecystitis (inflammatory algorithms in the gallbladder area). No less often, a person experiences hiccups as a result of the rapid development of duodenogastric reflux, a neoplasm in the gastrointestinal tract. We can talk about the stomach, pancreas, esophagus or intestines.

Another factor is cancer. Thus, frequent hiccups appear in humans precisely as a result of the presented phenomena. It should be noted that toxic reasons can also influence this, the first place among which is the influence of the alcohol component, poison or medicinal components.

Next, experts identify diabetes mellitus, severe renal failure, intoxication and complications after general anesthesia. Thus, frequent hiccups, like any other form of the condition, have very clear development factors and answers to the question of why exactly this happens.

Forms of hiccups

The presented condition is identified as physiological, that is, one that is not provoked by any diseases, and pathological, namely abnormal. The first type is formed in people with normal health and lasts from five to 15 minutes.

This condition does not bring significant discomfort and ends on its own.

Speaking about pathological forms, experts pay attention to problematic conditions that have already been presented earlier. In this case, the process can also be long or short-term. For example, in some situations, hiccups do not go away for several days, which means contacting a specialist as quickly as possible.

I would also like to note the classification of the condition in connection with its origin. Thus, central and peripheral hiccups, toxic and reflected, are identified. Thus, the classification of the condition is quite complex and should be carried out exclusively by a doctor, who will prescribe the appropriate diagnostic measures.

Diagnostic measures to identify the causes of hiccups

Hiccups after eating and during any other process, if they do not go away and last for several days, should be subjected to appropriate examination. We are talking, first of all, about the patient’s history of illnesses and complaints, about an analysis of life (the presence of other diseases, ailments related to kidney or stomach function). No less important stage is a consultation with such gastroenterologists, neurologists and even psychiatrists.

The next step diagnostic examination some differential measures should be considered. This is necessary because it makes it possible to identify diseases and some problematic conditions. We are talking about meningitis, encephalitis, neoplasms in the brain or spinal cord. In addition, hiccups after eating and other activities should be differentiated from inflammation of the stomach and ulcerative processes of something.

It is after the diagnosis is made that we can talk about prescribing the correct rehabilitation course. The most thorough treatment is necessary if the condition is caused by serious illnesses, such as gastritis or ulcers.

Treatment options

A rehabilitation course is necessary if hiccups after eating or in other cases last all day and do not go away even after a few days. It is not recommended to wait so long to see a specialist and start therapy as early as possible to avoid the development of complications and critical consequences.

Thus, a specialist is obliged to implement an adequate course in relation to those diseases that turned out to be a catalyst for the development of hiccups. In the vast majority of cases, we are talking about encephalitis, meningitis, neoplasms in the brain or spinal cord. No less rarely is it necessary to carry out therapy for gastritis or stomach ulcers.

That is why special attention is paid diagnostic measures, which, among other things, will help you choose a diet that will suit the patient in this particular case.

What are the most likely complications if hiccups last a whole day or more will be discussed further.

Complications and possible consequences of persistent hiccups

Hiccups after drinking alcohol or due to any other condition can be associated with complications. Experts pay attention to the following conditions:

• worsening gastritis – inability to eat food, problematic bowel movements and much more;
• exacerbation of diabetes mellitus, certain mental disorders, if they were the cause of the development of the phenomenon;
• deterioration general condition pancreas and gallbladder, as a result of which the patient may even die.

This is why experts insist that treatment for hiccups begin as early as possible.. Only this can be considered a guarantee of preservation perfect health and exclude the development of complications. How prevention should be carried out will be discussed below.

Prevention of the condition

Generally, preventive actions are aimed exclusively at controlling and eliminating those pathological conditions, which caused the development of hiccups. First of all, we are talking about the development of gastritis, meningitis, encephalitis and other equally serious ailments. In the same case, if hiccups do not last the whole day, but are observed only periodically, it is strongly recommended to adjust your lifestyle.

We are talking about eliminating the consumption of alcoholic beverages and observing all healthy eating standards.

To ensure that hiccups do not last the whole day and generally occur as rarely as possible, it is necessary to monitor your health and not exercise self-treatment. If unusual symptoms appear, it is recommended to consult a specialist.

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1.Can cancer be prevented?
The occurrence of a disease such as cancer depends on many factors. No person can ensure complete safety for himself. But everyone can significantly reduce the chances of developing a malignant tumor.

2.How does smoking affect the development of cancer?
Absolutely, categorically forbid yourself from smoking. Everyone is already tired of this truth. But quitting smoking reduces the risk of developing all types of cancer. Smoking is associated with 30% of deaths from cancer. In Russia, lung tumors kill more people than tumors of all other organs.
Eliminating tobacco from your life - best prevention. Even if you smoke not a pack a day, but only half a day, the risk of lung cancer is already reduced by 27%, as the American Medical Association found.

3.Does it affect excess weight on the development of cancer?
Look at the scales more often! Overweight will affect not only the waist. The American Institute for Cancer Research has found that obesity promotes the development of tumors of the esophagus, kidneys and gallbladder. The fact is that adipose tissue not only serves to preserve energy reserves, it also has a secretory function: fat produces proteins that affect the development of a chronic inflammatory process in the body. And oncological diseases appear against the background of inflammation. In Russia, WHO associates 26% of all cancer cases with obesity.

4.Do exercise help reduce the risk of cancer?
Spend at least half an hour a week training. Sport is on the same level as proper nutrition when it comes to cancer prevention. In the United States, a third of all deaths are attributed to the fact that patients did not follow any diet or pay attention to physical exercise. The American Cancer Society recommends exercising 150 minutes a week at a moderate pace or half as much but at a vigorous pace. However, a study published in the journal Nutrition and Cancer in 2010 shows that even 30 minutes can reduce the risk of breast cancer (which affects one in eight women worldwide) by 35%.

5.How does alcohol affect cancer cells?
Less alcohol! Alcohol has been blamed for causing tumors of the mouth, larynx, liver, rectum and mammary glands. Ethanol decomposes in the body to acetaldehyde, which then, under the action of enzymes, turns into acetic acid. Acetaldehyde is a strong carcinogen. Alcohol is especially harmful for women, as it stimulates the production of estrogens - hormones that affect the growth of breast tissue. Excess estrogen leads to the formation of breast tumors, which means that every extra sip of alcohol increases the risk of getting sick.

6.Which cabbage helps fight cancer?
Love broccoli. Vegetables not only contribute to a healthy diet, but they also help fight cancer. This is why recommendations for healthy eating contain the rule: half daily ration should be vegetables and fruits. Particularly useful are cruciferous vegetables, which contain glucosinolates - substances that, when processed, acquire anti-cancer properties. These vegetables include cabbage: regular cabbage, Brussels sprouts and broccoli.

7. Red meat affects which organ cancer?
The more vegetables you eat, the less red meat you put on your plate. Research has confirmed that people who eat more than 500g of red meat per week have a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer.

8.Which of the proposed remedies protect against skin cancer?
Stock up on sunscreen! Women aged 18–36 are especially susceptible to melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer. In Russia, in just 10 years, the incidence of melanoma has increased by 26%, world statistics show an even greater increase. Both tanning equipment and Sun rays. The danger can be minimized with a simple tube of sunscreen. A 2010 study in the Journal of Clinical Oncology confirmed that people who regularly apply a special cream have half the incidence of melanoma than those who neglect such cosmetics.
You need to choose a cream with a protection factor of SPF 15, apply it even in winter and even in cloudy weather (the procedure should turn into the same habit as brushing your teeth), and also not expose it to the sun's rays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

9. Do you think stress affects the development of cancer?
Stress itself does not cause cancer, but it weakens the entire body and creates conditions for the development of this disease. Research has shown that constant worry changes the activity of immune cells responsible for turning on the “fight and flight” mechanism. As a result, a large amount of cortisol, monocytes and neutrophils, which are responsible for inflammatory processes, constantly circulate in the blood. And as already mentioned, chronic inflammatory processes can lead to the formation of cancer cells.

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Hiccups are an involuntary sudden contraction of the diaphragm muscles. It usually repeats several times per short period time and is accompanied characteristic sound. Hiccups appear periodically in most older people, but if they occur too frequently, it may be associated with some pathology. Normal hiccups go away on their own after a short period of time. It does not cause pain and does not require use medicinal methods treatment.

Hiccups in older people: causes

There can be many reasons for hiccups in older people. All of them are divided into physiological and pathological. The first group includes the following:

1. Binge eating. When the stomach is full, it can put pressure on the vagus nerve and diaphragm, which can cause the person to hiccup.
2. Alcohol abuse. Alcohol causes irritation of the digestive mucosa and leads to intoxication of the body. All this causes disruption of the muscles of the diaphragm and the nervous system, which leads to hiccups.
3. Stress, strong emotions and prolonged depression. Such situations disrupt normal impulse transmission and provoke excitation of the brain centers responsible for the functioning of the diaphragm.
4. Eating too cold, spicy or too hot foods, as well as eating on the run.
5. Drug intoxication. Some medications can cause hiccups, especially anesthesia drugs, sulfonamides and muscle relaxants.
6. Laughter. In this case, the person inhales strongly and exhales with several sharp short exhalations. This breathing rhythm causes the diaphragm to tremble, which can cause hiccups.
7. Hypothermia. Convulsive sharp contraction of muscles is designed to preserve the heat of the human body as much as possible.

TO pathological reasons Diseases that cause hiccups include the following:

1. Pathologies of the digestive system: ulcers, gastritis, cholecystitis, heartburn and others.
2. Diseases of the nervous system, accompanied by swelling of the nervous tissue and death of individual cells.
3. Diseases respiratory system: oncology, pleurisy, pneumonia and bronchitis.
4. Myocardial infarction.
5. Multiple sclerosis.
6. Meningitis.
7. Stroke.
8. Head injuries.
9. Spinal hernias and others.

Hiccups can start in people of any age and gender, but young children and the elderly are most susceptible to it. Prolonged hiccups that do not go away can be one of the manifestations of certain diseases, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms. Diseases and conditions that can cause hiccups in older adults include:

• elevated blood sugar levels;
• heart pathologies;
• surgical operations using anesthesia;
• regular use of steroids or tranquilizers;
• intoxications resulting from consumption alcoholic products or medications;
• oncological diseases;
• head injuries;
• pathologies of the digestive system, etc.

How to cure hiccups in an elderly person

Medicine

In some cases, prolonged hiccups cause a person a lot of inconvenience and unpleasant moments. To get rid of this, he may be prescribed drug therapy. For chronic hiccups, drugs such as calcium agonists, antidopaminergic drugs, GABA and others are prescribed.

Of the calcium agonist drugs, Nifedipine or Nimodine are usually prescribed. The first of them has variable effectiveness and is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Possible side effects this drug include: constipation, weakness, increased heart rate. Nimodine can be taken in tablet form or administered intravenously. It is quite effective, but not well studied.

Antidopaminergic drugs used for prolonged hiccups include:

• Aminazine. Its effectiveness in combating this problem reaches 80%. This drug is not used to treat pregnant women, and its long-term use is not recommended;
• Metoclopramide. Used for chronic hiccups and constant vomiting. This medication can be taken during pregnancy.

Among GABA, the following may be prescribed for hiccups:

• Valproic acid. Possesses high efficiency, but can cause the development of leukopenia and thrombocytopenia;
• Baclofen. Its action is based on muscle relaxation. This drug is currently most often used to eliminate hiccups. Its side effects include a decrease in blood pressure.

In addition to medications, for prolonged hiccups, medicine offers other treatment methods:

• gastric probing, which is carried out through the nasal passages. It is used in cases where hiccups are caused by the release of gastric juice into the esophagus;
• stimulation of the vagus nerve. To do this, doctors implant a special device that affects the vagus nerve and stops hiccups;
• anesthesia of the phrenic nerve. This method of treatment is carried out by injecting an anesthetic drug into the area of ​​the phrenic nerve, as a result of which it loses the ability to conduct nerve impulses.

Folk remedies

The following folk remedies for hiccups can be used:

1. Lemon juice. It is very acidic and, when ingested, causes a short-term cessation of breathing and involuntary contraction of the diaphragm muscles, which leads to the stopping of hiccups.
2. Vinegar. It should be used only in diluted form, as it can damage the mucous membrane of the digestive organs. The effect of this remedy is similar to that of lemon juice.
3. Water. Drinking it in small sips stimulates the centers of the brain that block hiccups.
4. Sugar. A small spoonful of sugar can cause the diaphragm to contract and stop hiccups.
5. Briefly hold your breath for about 10 seconds.
6. Fright. In this case, there is also a strong contraction of the diaphragmatic muscles, which leads to the cessation of hiccups.
7. Sneezing. It uses the muscles of the diaphragm and intercostal spaces, due to which it can also stop hiccups.

Hiccups are a phenomenon familiar to everyone since childhood. A hiccupping person looks funny, but his own feelings are far from pleasant. In most cases, this condition passes quickly enough, but sometimes it takes on a debilitating chronic form. The Guinness Book of Records records a case where a person hiccupped (and without visible physiological reason) for 68 years.

Physiological essence of hiccups

Hiccups are an uncontrollable breathing reflex. The mechanism of its occurrence involves the diaphragm, intercostal muscles, larynx, and nerve endings. The diaphragm is a dome-shaped muscular septum that separates the abdominal cavity and sternum. It is its vibrations that allow the lungs to expand when inhaling and contract when exhaling. During hiccups, smooth movements of the diaphragm are replaced by convulsive, jerking ones, and the intercostal muscles work in the same rhythm. The result is a very short inhalation that is blocked by the epiglottis (hence the characteristic sound), and for a split second a kind of suffocation occurs.

Every movement in the human body is the result of the interaction of the ubiquitous control nerves with the brain as well as the spinal cord. The phrenic nerves, which originate from the cervical spinal cord, are responsible for contracting the diaphragm. The vagus nerve connects the brain and the peritoneum, affecting the larynx. Approaching the esophagus, it splits from pronounced trunks (left and right) into several branches that surround the esophagus, forming a plexus. The anterior and posterior branches squeeze through the rather narrow diaphragmatic opening along with the esophagus, so irritation or stretching of its walls has a direct effect on the control nerves.

Hiccups are a product of transmission of a nerve impulse to the brain and spinal cord by reflex arc with irritation of the diaphragm and vagus nerve. The brain instantly responds with a signal that causes a sharp diaphragmatic contraction. The hiccups will stop when the transmission of impulses stops, and control of the movement of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles returns to the control of the respiratory center.

Causes and types of hiccups

The causes of hiccups are mostly quite harmless, but in some cases, such a failure of breathing indicates a serious pathology.

Physiological hiccups

There is no concern about physiological (episodic) hiccups, which are provoked by the following reasons:

• hypothermia (causes convulsive contraction of muscle tissue);
• stress (temporary disruptions in the transmission of nerve impulses occur);
• esophageal irritation (too hot, cold, or fatty food, large pieces, drinking alcohol);
• rapid swallowing of food, accompanied by air entering the esophagus and stomach;
• uncomfortable body position.

There is an opinion among experts that hiccups are one of the methods protective system body. In the above cases, spasms of the diaphragm and esophagus indicate inadequate quality of food, its excess or toxicity. The signal from the vagus nerve immediately enters the brain, and the person begins to hiccup. For the same reason, hiccups often occur in young children, since their body reacts to irritants quickly and smoothly. Such hiccups go away quite quickly - within 5-25 minutes, sometimes they resume again (typical for people intoxicated).

Pathological

Pathological hiccups (ICD-10 code : R06.6) – companion of diseases. It often bothers you every day for several days, weeks or even months. The attacks continue for hours, sometimes for days, in some cases accompanied by heartburn, headache, vomiting, and a feeling of general weakness.

Frequent hiccups in smokers, resulting from irritation of the vagus nerve toxic substances, indicates the development pathological processes in the stomach or duodenum(ulceration, reflux esophagitis).

Examples of pathological hiccups:

• hiccups that continue for more than one day, accompanied by copious salivation, may indicate problems with the brain or spinal cord, or damage to the nervous system;
• hiccups with cough, pain in the back and sides indicate lung damage (pleurisy, pneumonia);
• If periodic hiccups are complicated by a headache, while a general weakness of the body is felt, and aching pain in the neck and shoulders is bothersome, then the development of osteochondrosis is likely.

If you are worried about frequent and prolonged hiccups, you should carefully listen to your body for additional symptoms.

Treatment

Even short-term hiccups is a strong irritant. There are many popularly tested ways to get rid of it. The simplest and most popular of them are:

• from an inclined position, drink warm water in small sips;
• swallow a little finely crushed ice or eat ice cream;
• breathe quickly into a paper bag, placing it tightly on the nasal area;
• eat something bitter or sweet;
• gently pull the tongue by the tip;
• eat a teaspoon of sugar without drinking it;
• lubricate the throat with oregano oil;
• apply cold to the diaphragm area;
• cover your ears with your fingers and drink water from a cup placed on the edge of the table;
• drink chamomile tea, water with lemon or apple cider vinegar (250 ml teaspoon);
• sniff ground pepper to induce sneezing;
• from a sitting position, raise your arms up, move them back a little and stretch with effort for 15 seconds;
• inhale sharply, hold your breath, bend slightly and press on the diaphragm area for a few seconds.

In some cases, even repeatedly repeated sayings like “hiccups, go to Fedot” work, but this is not the case higher powers, and in the position of the diaphragm at a certain breathing rhythm. Often the hiccups stop if the person is scared or distracted.

Each body is individual, so those recipes that work flawlessly on some people do not work at all on others. Traditional methods all the more powerless if hiccups are a consequence of pathology. In such cases, a medical examination by a neurologist, endocrinologist or gastroenterologist is necessary. The following studies may be prescribed:

• blood tests for sugar, helminthic infestation, infections;
• endoscopy of the windpipe and esophagus;
• cardiogram;
• CT or MRI;
• X-ray of the diaphragm.

To relieve hiccups caused by neurological causes, doctors prescribe the following remedies:

• Corvalol;
• Chlorpromazine;
• Finlepsin;
• Aminazine;
• Difenin;
• Haloperidol;
• Pipolfen.

If you need to relax the muscles of the diaphragm due to irritation of the vagus nerve or problems with the functioning of the respiratory system, then Baclofen is prescribed.

When hiccups are a consequence of stomach fullness, peristalsis stimulants help: Peristil, Cisapride. To relieve attacks caused by digestive problems, drugs such as:

• Metoclopramide;
• Motilium;
• Omeprazole;
• Cerucal;
• Scopolamine.

Taking medications on your own to block long-term hiccups without finding out its causes is dangerous.

If medications are powerless, they resort to surgical intervention aimed at blocking nerves. An example of such a manipulation is a blockade using the Vishnevsky method. In some cases, acupuncture and hypnotherapy effectively relieve hiccups.

Hiccups can occur at the most unexpected moment, so methods of getting rid of them are selected depending on the situation: a glass of water or breathing exercises. If cramps appear systematically after eating, then you should reconsider your diet and eating regimen. Chewing thoroughly, a calm environment during meals, and small portions are simple measures that will avoid irritation of the esophagus. In cases where hiccups become obsessive and are accompanied by additional symptoms, you should consult a doctor.

Hiccups is an innate reflex given to us by nature. This is the body’s reaction to external (cold) or internal (food pressure on the walls of the esophagus and stomach) stimuli. With hiccups, the diaphragm and intercostal muscles try to deep breath. But at the same time a spasm occurs in the larynx, and the airways become blocked. A characteristic sound occurs during inhalation at the moment of spasm of the vocal cords.

Each of the innate reflexes helps a person survive. Coughing, for example, clears the lungs, and immediately withdrawing your hand from a hot object helps avoid burns.

But why do we need hiccups?
This time the opinions of scientists differed. Let's focus on the two most plausible versions.

Version one. Hiccups help release the vagus nerve, which is pinched in the area hiatus diaphragm. This nerve is very important, since its proper functioning ensures the functioning of vital important organs: heart, lungs, stomach, intestines. So, hiccups are an attempt to protect the vagus nerve from irritation.

Version two. Hiccups – defense mechanism, which circulates fluid in the lungs of the embryo. Subsequently, this reflex becomes unnecessary and slowly fades away, but its appearance is periodically provoked by various factors.

Interesting facts about hiccups

• Several centuries ago, hiccups were considered a sign of the evil eye and damage.
• The Germans applied a paper cross they made with their own hands to their foreheads for hiccups. And the British baptize with their right hand left foot.
• The longest bout of hiccups lasted 68 years.
• Men are more likely to suffer from hiccups than women.
• It is easier to stop hiccups before you have hiccupped 5-10 times. If the moment is missed, then you will hiccup about 60 more times.
• A whole epidemic once happened in the Arkhangelsk region. Women caught hiccups from each other. This phenomenon is called “Pinega ikotnitsy”. But he never found an explanation.

Causes of hiccups

The mechanism of hiccups

Let's remember the anatomy to make it clearer what happens to our body during hiccups. Aperture – vastus muscle, which separates the chest and abdominal cavities. IN calm state it resembles a dome. When a muscle tenses, it becomes flat. At the same time, it stretches the lungs and increases their volume. This happens during every breath. The intercostal muscles raise the ribs to further increase the volume of the chest.

During hiccups, this process occurs very quickly, the diaphragm and intercostal muscles contract convulsively. But the vocal cords close, the air supply is blocked by the epiglottis, and instead of a full breath, we get hiccups.

We figured out how the characteristic “hic” occurs. But the muscles of the body do not work independently. They are always controlled by the nervous system. But in this case, she does it against our will.

Hiccups occur when irritants affect the vagus nerve, a thick fiber of nerve endings covered in a protective sheath that runs from the skull to the internal organs. The signal of irritation immediately reaches the “hiccup centers.” The intermediate is in cervical spine the spinal cord, and the central brainstem. These structures are responsible for analyzing the signal and making decisions about reducing the aperture. A command from the brain in the form of a nerve impulse descends to the diaphragm and intercostal muscles and causes them to contract sharply.

The path taken by a nerve impulse is called a reflex arc. Its components: diaphragm, vagus nerve, brain, vagus nerve, phrenic nerve, diaphragm muscles. If you open this circuit and stop the transmission of the nerve impulse, then the hiccups will stop. This will happen when the respiratory center, normally responsible for the functioning of the lungs, again takes over the function of controlling the diaphragm and other respiratory muscles.

The mechanism of hiccups is closely related to the respiratory, nervous system and digestive organs (esophagus and stomach). Changes in the organs controlled by the vagus nerve can cause hiccups.

Let's take a closer look at what can cause hiccups. These factors are usually divided into two groups.

To the first Let's include “harmless” reasons that cause short bouts of banal hiccups, which last from 5 to 20 minutes and go away on their own.
To the second This group of causes includes diseases that lead to hiccups. If the hiccups are associated with pathology and the attacks last more than 2 days, then this is already a long-term persistent hiccups. Her attacks are repeated frequently, and coping with them is much more difficult.

1. Pathologies of the digestive system
   • esophagitis
   • peptic ulcer of the stomach or intestines
   Inflammation of the esophagus, stomach, intestines and glands, which are considered “subordinate” to the vagus nerve, causes malfunctions in its functioning. Inflammation with nearby organs affects the vagus and phrenic nerves and the diaphragmatic muscle. Any impact on the nerve endings turns into a nerve impulse, which travels along a reflex arc and ends with a convulsive contraction of the diaphragm muscles.
2. Respiratory system diseases The vagus nerve ensures the functioning of the muscles of the pharynx and palate, so any inflammation of the upper respiratory tract disrupts its functioning. This is facilitated by intoxication and compression of surrounding tissues as a result of edema. But if in upper sections the nerve is protected by the sheaths of the neurovascular bundle, then entering chest, it crumbles into a number of small branches. They are more vulnerable and sensitive to inflammation of the bronchi and lungs. And, as you understand, any impact on the vagus nerve can result in hiccups.
3. Nervous system disorders
   • concussion
   • compression of a nerve by a vertebral hernia
   Trauma or inflammatory diseases, brain damage resulting from bad work blood vessels or toxin poisoning manifest themselves with a variety of symptoms. Among them there is also persistent, prolonged hiccups. In this case, diaphragmatic spasms are caused by compression of an area of ​​the brain stem by surrounding swollen tissue.
4. Pathologies of the cardiovascular system
   • myocardial infarction
   • aortic aneurysm
   • artificial pacemaker
   Since the heart lies in close proximity to the vagus nerve, serious interruptions in its functioning can be transmitted to the nerve trunk. Along it, excitement spreads to the “hiccup center.”
5. Intoxication of the body
   • chemotherapy
   • medications (dexamethasone)
   • drugs for general anesthesia
   Intoxications caused by microorganisms that enter the blood during illness or drugs poison the nervous system. They have a toxic effect on both the brain and peripheral nerves. This causes abnormal nerve impulses that cause the diaphragm to contract.
6. Tumors

   This is, of course, very rare reason the appearance of hiccups, but quite probable. Benign or malignant tumors can occur in any organ. Hiccups are associated with tumors that are located in the brain, along the path of the vagus nerve, or on the diaphragm itself. The tumor tissue compresses the nerve endings, causing nervous tic- hiccups.

Hiccups in newborns

Newborn babies are more likely to suffer from hiccups. Although, we must admit that this phenomenon worries young mothers more than the babies themselves.

Hiccups in newborns are frequent, rhythmic twitching of the diaphragm, the muscular septum that separates the lungs from the digestive organs. Can last from 5 minutes to an hour.

Causes of hiccups in newborns

Hiccups in newborns can be provoked by many factors because this reflex is much better developed in them than in adults. This is due to the fact that in the prenatal period, hiccups help the child to develop properly. Contractions of the diaphragm ensure the circulation of fluid that fills the baby’s lungs; this is a kind of massage of the internal organs and a way to develop muscles.

After birth, this reflex becomes unnecessary, but it fades away slowly. Therefore any external influence may provoke it.

The mechanism of hiccups in newborns. An impulse arises in the nerve endings of the vagus nerve. It appears if a spasm of the diaphragm occurs, it is pinched by a swollen tummy, or after irritation of the esophagus. The impulse rises to the brain. There is a special section that controls the movements of the diaphragm. He gives a command that, in the form of a nerve impulse, moves down and causes the diaphragm to tremble. The following reasons can cause contractions of the vagus nerve:

1. Hypothermia. Normal child reacts to cold air with strong muscle tension. At the same time, the abdominal muscles contract, and the internal organs support the diaphragm. Hiccuping, in this case, is an attempt to relax the muscles of the diaphragm so that the lungs can breathe more comfortably.
2. After regurgitation. During regurgitation, air and food quickly pass through the esophagus, irritating nearby nerve endings.
3. Stomach fullness. Incorrect attachment to the breast, when the baby gasps for air with each swallow or rapid sucking often ends in hiccups. The stomach, overfilled with milk and air, presses on the diaphragm from below, causing hiccups.
4. Bloating. Gases that form in the intestines cause painful sensations. The baby's tummy becomes bloated and hard. The baby tenses, twists his legs and thereby compresses the diaphragm even more, lifting it up to the lungs. In response to this, the sensitive muscular septum begins to twitch.
5. Scream. While crying, the child strongly tenses all his muscles and takes in a large amount of air, which enters not only the lungs, but also the stomach. It enlarges and stretches the vagus nerve, which runs along the surface of the stomach.
6. Fright. You took the baby with cold hands, turned on a bright light, or heard a loud noise next to him. loud noise– this may frighten the child. Stress is always accompanied by contraction of the body muscles, and sometimes hiccups.
7. Immaturity of internal organs. Internal organs little man continue to form even after birth, especially for children who are born ahead of schedule. The nervous system and digestive organs are very sensitive to various irritations. They are just learning to work correctly. Therefore, spasms often occur, and hiccups are their consequence.
8. Diseases. In rare cases, increased intracranial pressure can cause hiccups - the center of the hiccups is compressed and sends impulses to the diaphragm. Another reason is pneumonia. In this case, inflammatory processes disrupt the transmission of signals along the vagus and phrenic nerves.

How does hiccups manifest in newborns?

Hiccups in newborns manifest themselves in rhythmic shaking of the entire body, which is accompanied by a characteristic sound. This phenomenon can last from several minutes to an hour. Most often this happens after feeding or during air baths.

Most often, hiccups do not cause much concern in newborns. But for some babies it prevents them from falling asleep, and then the child becomes capricious and whiny.

Treatment

The main rule is not to worry. Hiccups in newborns are not a manifestation of the disease. Absolutely all children hiccup, but perhaps some hiccup more often or for longer. But every organism has its own characteristics. Remember that over time this reflex fades away and will bother your child less and less. In the meantime, a few simple tips how to help your baby.

What not to do?

Treatment methods for hiccups that can be tried on an adult are absolutely not suitable for a newborn baby. Hiccups themselves will not cause as much harm as some attempts to get rid of hiccups.

1. Don't scare the baby. Claps, shouts and tossing will only cause a crying attack and will cause a sleepless night. Try to distract your child using more civilized methods: show toys, carry them in your arms.
2. Don't wrap it up. Hiccups are not a reason to put winter clothes on your child. If the temperature in the newborn’s room is normal (22°C), then a blouse and rompers are enough. Remember that overheating is worse for a newborn than hypothermia. If the baby still has cold hands and nose, then wrap him in a warm diaper or pick him up.
3. Don't give water. From the point of view of specialists in breastfeeding from WHO, newborns only need mother's milk. And a bottle of water can cause the baby to not want to breastfeed.
4. Don't eat foods causing formation gases The nursing mother's menu has great importance. Eating cabbage, legumes, peanuts, and tomatoes causes bloating in infants and can cause hiccups.

What to do?

Treatment with medications

Group of drugs	Representatives	Mechanism of treated action	How is it prescribed?
Treatment of hiccups caused by immaturity of the nervous system and nervous excitement
Homeopathic sedatives	Dormikind	Prescribed for the treatment of hiccups associated with immaturity of the nervous system and uneven development of its parts. They have a calming effect. The child becomes less whiny, less stressed and sleeps better. The functioning of the nervous system improves faster, and attacks of hiccups become less frequent.	Dilute 1 tablet in a teaspoon of water and give it to drink 30 minutes before meals or 30 minutes after meals. Repeat 3 times a day.
Treatment of hiccups associated with intestinal colic
Carminatives	Bebinos Espumisan L	Used to treat hiccups caused by bloating and other digestive problems. Relieves spasms in the intestines, helps get rid of gas accumulation. Reduces the load on the diaphragm from the digestive organs.	3-6 drops 3 times a day with a small amount of water. Take after meals and before bedtime.

Remember, it is forbidden to give a newborn baby any medications without a doctor’s prescription. Even the most harmless, from your point of view, medicine or dietary supplement can cause irreparable harm to a child. Allergic reactions, palpitations, digestive disorders - these are just a few of the possible consequences. Therefore, before treating hiccups in a newborn with medications, consult a pediatrician and neurologist.

Tell your pediatrician about the following cases of hiccups:

• hiccups last more than 2 hours after you have eliminated the possible causes of its occurrence;
• attacks appear regularly several times a day for 2 weeks or more.

Hiccups in children

Hiccups in children the phenomenon is quite common. It ends every hypothermia or bout of boisterous laughter. Sometimes children hiccup several times a day. In this case, they talk about episodic or banal hiccups. This phenomenon is familiar to absolutely everyone and should not worry parents. With age, attacks of contractions of the diaphragm muscles become less and less frequent.

Prolonged hiccups are another matter. It can go on for hours. Due to the large number of contractions of the diaphragm, the child experiences discomfort. The fact is that each “hic” is a powerful and quick breath. But it is defective because the glottis narrows sharply and does not allow air flow to enter the lungs. Therefore, during prolonged hiccups, the child may experience oxygen deficiency. It is necessary to examine the baby to detect pathologies that cause hiccups. These could be worms, gastritis, disorders of the liver, brain or spinal cord,

Causes and mechanism of hiccups in children

In most cases hiccups in children caused by completely harmless factors. They irritate the nerve endings of the vagus and phrenic nerves located on the esophagus, stomach and diaphragm. The nerve impulse travels along the nerve fibers to the brain. There is special zone- “center of hiccups.” Here, commands are formed that return along nerve fibers to the respiratory muscles and cause them to contract.

What can cause hiccups?

1. Stomach fullness. Your baby has eaten more than usual or drunk a lot of liquid. The stomach stretches and puts pressure on the diaphragm, lifting it up. This causes a response in the brain, and it causes the diaphragm muscles to contract.
2. Esophageal irritation. Perhaps the child did not chew food well and swallowed in large pieces. This is especially true for dry foods: crackers, bagels. This happens when a child is in a hurry or his baby teeth are loose and it hurts to chew. Large pieces food stretches the wall of the esophagus and irritates the branches of the vagus nerve.
3. Hypothermia. Wet feet, a wet diaper or general hypothermia cause contraction of the skeletal muscles and diaphragm. In this way, the body tries to retain heat. A compressed diaphragm is a discomfort for the nerves, and hence hiccups.
4. Swallowing air (aerophagia). This can happen while laughing, crying, when a child is excitedly telling you something or chewing gum. Aerophagia is often observed during diseases that are accompanied by sore throat. Air, like food, inflates the stomach and, with the help of contractions of the diaphragm, the body tries to reduce pressure.
5. Nervous tension, fright. In stressful situations, a lot of adrenaline enters the blood. This substance causes contraction of muscles, including the diaphragm. And we already know what the consequences are. In addition, a malfunction of the nervous system occurs. Foci of excitation arise in the “hiccup center”, and it takes over control of the respiratory muscles.
6. Uncomfortable position. If the baby was in one position for a long time, for example, sitting slouched, then the organs abdominal cavity press on the diaphragm. This may cause her muscles to spasm.
7. Taking medications. Sulfonamide drugs, which are often prescribed to children to fight bacteria, muscle relaxants that are used before surgery, and other drugs can cause intoxication. Damage to the nervous system can manifest itself in the form of prolonged bouts of hiccups.

What pathologies cause hiccups in children?

The inflammation is rarely limited to a small area. It almost always affects surrounding tissue. They swell and the nerve endings become pinched in them. Hiccups are caused by diseases that affect organs located along the vagus and phrenic nerves. And it doesn’t matter whether the disorders arise in the brain or in the abdominal cavity. The signal enters the “hiccup center”, and there an impulse is formed that causes the child to hiccup.

1. Inflammation different departments respiratory system
   • inflammation of the pharynx
   • inflammation of the trachea and bronchi
   • pneumonia
2. Digestive diseases
   • inflammation or stretching of the esophagus
   • inflammation or peptic ulcer stomach, intestines
   • liver pathology
3. Pathologies of the nervous system
   • brain and spinal cord injuries
   • dysfunction of the peripheral nervous system,
   • nerve damage
   • cysts and tumors
4. • inflammation of the lining of the heart
   • aortic aneurysm

In order not to unnecessarily frighten parents, we note that similar diseases are rare in children and are not always accompanied by hiccups. But still visit a doctor if your baby hiccups for a long time, attacks of hiccups cannot be relieved within 48 hours; hiccups appear regularly for 2 or more weeks.

Treatment of hiccups in children

Treatment of hiccups in children in most cases does not require medication. There are a large number of methods that allow you to restore the normal functioning of the respiratory center in the brain, which causes the diaphragm to move smoothly.

There is something different for everyone; there are no universal recipes. Most methods are quite safe and children perceive them as fun game. But among the recipes for hiccups, there are also those that can be harmful, especially if used frequently.

What not to do?

1. Do not smear the root of your tongue with strong mustard. Another variation on this theme: mix mustard with vinegar and lubricate the tip of your tongue. In children, such a procedure can cause not only allergies, but also a spasm of the muscles of the larynx and bronchi, then the child will begin to choke.
2. Do not swallow a teaspoon of salt. remember, that daily norm salt for a child is less than one gram, and a teaspoon holds 5 grams. Therefore, such treatment for hiccups can disrupt the water and electrolyte balance in the body.
3. Don't scare the child. Fright is unlikely to get rid of hiccups; it will most likely worsen the situation. In addition, it can cause other unpleasant phenomena, such as stuttering and enuresis.
4. Don't call vomiting reflex. Pressing on the root of the tongue helps some adults, but in a child this procedure will cause a lot of unpleasant sensations and every attack of hiccups will be associated with psychological trauma. Believe me, there are many more pleasant and no less effective ways hiccup treatment.
5. Do not drop Corvalol on sugar. This method helps many adults, but is completely unsuitable for children. Their body may behave unpredictably in response to the medication. Side effects include tachycardia, drowsiness and dizziness.

What to do?

1. Train yourself to eat slowly. When your baby chews food thoroughly and swallows it in small portions, he will not swallow air, which causes hiccups. By eating slowly, he will have time to realize that he is full and is less likely to overeat. This habit will help avoid the occurrence of hiccups associated with overeating and swallowing air.
2. Holding your breath. Ask your child to take a deep breath, hold it as long as possible, and suck in the belly. Another option: breathe the air that is in a paper bag. At the same time, the amount of carbon dioxide in the blood increases, and the brain begins to feel a lack of oxygen. When the body encounters such a serious problem, it “forgets” about hiccups caused by irritation of the vagus and phrenic nerves. Excess carbon dioxide reboots the respiratory center, which is responsible for correct work diaphragm and lungs.
3. Drinking water. You need to hold your breath and during this time drink 12 small sips of water. Another way: put the glass on a chair and drink water through a straw while leaning over it. At this time, the hands should be clasped and held as high as possible. Drinking poda helps relax the esophagus and diaphragm and interrupts the passage of the nerve impulse that causes hiccups.
4. Stretch the diaphragm. Ask your child to take a deep breath and hold it for 30 seconds. Then you can purse your lips into a tube and exhale slowly and smoothly. Repeat 5-6 times. Stretching the diaphragm and normalizing breathing restores proper muscle function. This method helps if hiccups are associated with prolonged stay in one position or muscle spasms after fright and hypothermia.
5. Unusual tastes. An experiment conducted by British scientists showed that in 19 out of 20 cases, hiccups in children stopped after they were asked to suck a teaspoon of granulated sugar. If you are not at home, sugar can be replaced with M&M's candies, they need to be chewed. American children are treated with a spoon of peanut butter. A slice of lemon also helps. The fact is that foods with a strong taste irritate the taste buds, switching the attention of the nervous system to this problem and distracting from hiccups. This method works in almost all cases.
6. Massage the hard palate. Massage hard palate(this is the area of ​​the mouth behind the upper teeth) is a distraction for the vagus nerve. The palate can be tickled with the tip of your tongue or massaged with your finger. Tactile stimulation of the palate receptors helps relieve stimulation of the vagus nerve caused by laughter or swallowing air.
7. Dip your face in cool water. Fill a bowl with cool water and invite your child to soak his face for a few seconds. You need to hold your breath and then slowly release the air. Bent position, holding your breath and unusual sensations from “diving” into cool water will relax the diaphragm and interrupt the transmission of commands from the “hiccup center” to the diaphragm.
8. Physical exercise.
   • As you inhale, raise your arms up and stretch. As you exhale, bend down and relax.
   • Place your child in a chair and ask him to press against the back and take a deep breath. After this, lean forward, grab your knees and hold your breath for 5-10 seconds. Now you can exhale slowly.
   Such exercises help to relax the muscles of the diaphragm, and holding your breath is necessary so that the concentration of carbon dioxide in the blood increases. under such conditions, the respiratory center takes control of the work respiratory muscles.
9. Chamomile tea. This drink helps calm the nervous system and relax muscles. If you drink tea in small sips, you can influence the nerve endings of the vagus nerve in the pharynx and esophagus.

Medication treatment of hiccups in children

Medicines for the treatment of hiccups in children are used very rarely, only if attacks occur regularly, last a long time and greatly interfere with the child. Usually such indomitable hiccups are caused by some kind of disease.

Group of drugs	Mechanism of treated action	Representatives	How is it prescribed?
Treatment of hiccups associated with increased excitability of the nervous system
Antihistamines	They block the work of areas of the brain responsible for contractions of the diaphragm, reduce the sensitivity of nerve endings, prevent and eliminate hiccups.	Pipolfen (Promethazine)	Take 1 tablet after meals 1-4 times a day. Wash it down sufficient quantity water. It is not recommended to chew the dragee so as not to cause intestinal irritation. From 2 months possible intramuscular injection pipolfen. From 6 years of age you can give it to your child in the form of pills.
Neuroleptics	They calm the nervous system, relieve anxiety, and have a hypnotic and antiemetic effect. The mechanism of action is associated with a decrease in the sensitivity of the vagus nerve.	Aminazine (Chlorpromazine)	Aminazine in syrup is prescribed from one year onwards. In dragees from 3-6 years. Single dose of 500 mcg/kg. Take 4-5 times a day after meals.
Treatment of hiccups associated with spasm of the diaphragm muscles
Antispasmodics	Reduces the tone of smooth muscles that make up internal organs and blood vessels, relieves spasms of the intestines and stomach. Thanks to this, it is possible to relax the diaphragm and release pinched nerves.	No-shpa Papaverine	A single dose for children is up to 10-20 mg, the frequency of administration depends on age. Take with or without food with plenty of liquid. Papaverine is prescribed depending on age, ¼-2 tablets.
Treatment of hiccups associated with bloating and indigestion
Carminatives	They help eliminate the accumulation of gases in the intestines, which puts pressure on the diaphragm.	Espumisan Plantex and other products based on fennel, dill, anise, cumin	Take 2-3 times a day after meals. If necessary, again at night.

Before giving your child any medicine, be sure to consult your doctor. He will determine the dose and frequency of administration, taking into account the baby’s condition, his age and weight.

Hiccups in adults

All adults are familiar with hiccups - this is a convulsive contraction of the muscles of the diaphragm, which is accompanied by a sharp narrowing of the glottis. This phenomenon is most often caused by: hypothermia or overeating, but there are cases when hiccups may indicate a serious illness.

Causes and mechanism of hiccups in adults

Causes of episodic hiccups in adults

1. Stomach fullness. If you sit down more than usual, your stomach increases in volume significantly. It puts pressure on the diaphragm located above it and on the vagus nerve. Overflow is often preceded by sphincter spasm. These are special circular muscles that are located at the entrance and exit from the stomach. If they are compressed, then food cannot go into the intestines, and air cannot be released in the form of belching. In this case we feel unpleasant heaviness, preceding hiccups.
2. Hot or cold food, dry food, spicy food. As food passes through the esophagus, it irritates its lining. This irritation is transmitted to the nearby vagus nerve, and through it to the brain. The response to the stimulus is a sharp contraction of the diaphragm
3. Alcohol. Strong alcoholic drinks burn the mucous membrane of the pharynx and esophagus, and then cause intoxication (poisoning) by disrupting the functioning of nerves, including the vagus and diaphragmatic ones. This is why hiccups so often accompany large feasts.
4. Drug intoxication. In this case, hiccups in adults are side effect medicines. Their components disrupt the functioning of the nervous system. More often than others, sulfonamide drugs, muscle relaxants, and anesthetics are to blame for the appearance of hiccups.
5. Stress, fear, hysteria - this is a load on the central nervous system. Stress disrupts the transmission of signals from centers in the brain to executive organs. In the center responsible for the contraction of the diaphragm, excitation occurs, which is transmitted to its muscles.
6. Hypothermia. When we are cold, we shiver. This is a convulsive muscle contraction aimed at maintaining heat, and we feel the trembling of the diaphragm as hiccups.
7. Laughter. When laughing, a deep breath is followed by a series of sharp exhalations. This disrupts the functioning of the respiratory center, and the “hiccup center” gains control over the diaphragm.

Persistent long-term hiccups in adults can be caused by various diseases:

1. Nervous system lesions Pathologies of the nervous system are accompanied by swelling of the nervous tissue, while some cells die and the signal transmission pathways from the brain to the diaphragm are disrupted. This causes its convulsive contraction.

   Diseases of other organs cause irritation not central department, A peripheral nerves– wandering and diaphragmatic. If the source of inflammation is located next to them, then a failure occurs in the nervous regulation of the diaphragm. Here is a list of diseases that may be accompanied by hiccups:

   • brain inflammation
   • concussions and bruises
   • multiple sclerosis
   • tumors
   • intervertebral hernia, compressing nerves
2. Digestive diseases
   • heartburn and dilation of the esophagus
   • peptic ulcer of the stomach and small intestine
3. Diseases of the cardiovascular system
   • aortic aneurysm
   • myocardial infarction
4. Respiratory system diseases
   • pneumonia
   • pleurisy
   • tumors

Hiccups associated with illness last more than 48 hours and require medical attention. But remember that these diseases never manifest themselves as just hiccups. They cause a whole bunch of symptoms, so don’t get upset ahead of time. Just consult a therapist or neurologist.

Treatment

Episodic hiccups does not need treatment. It goes away on its own after a few minutes when you switch your attention to something else. But if hiccups really bother you, you can try methods that open the reflex arc (the path of the nerve impulse). There are a great variety of such distracting maneuvers, and each one has something different that helps.

What not to do?

You should not use extreme methods to combat hiccups, which, although they will stop the hiccups, can also be harmful to your health.

1. Rectal massage. American Francis Fesmire, together with Israeli scientists, received the Ig Nobel Prize for this method in 2006. They have proven that finger massage of the rectum is a good treatment for hiccups. But this method never became widespread.
2. Fright. Attempts to scare a hiccupper can cause serious neurological disorders. It is especially dangerous if a person has heart problems.
3. Lubricate the root of the tongue with strong mustard. This seasoning may cause laryngeal spasm. In addition, mustard, if it gets into the esophagus, will burn it, which can cause increased hiccups.

What to do?

1. Drinking water. There are several exotic ways of drinking water that can help you get rid of hiccups. The fact is that cool water affects receptors in the throat, which distract the vagus nerve from transmitting commands to the diaphragm. As water travels down the esophagus, it helps it relax and pushes out stuck food that can irritate the diaphragm. In addition, concentrating on counting sips puts the nervous system in order.
   • Hold your breath and take 12 sips;
   • Drink water from the opposite edge of the glass;
   • Hold the pencil between your teeth; it should be positioned horizontally between your teeth. Try taking a few sips.
   • Drop half a wooden toothpick into the glass. Drink water, being careful not to get a toothpick in your mouth.
   • Drink water while leaning forward. You can drink from the tap or from a glass on the table. Your hands should be clasped behind your back. Raise them as high as possible.
2. Holding your breath. When you hold your breath, your blood becomes rich in carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide is a signal for the respiratory center to take control of the diaphragm. It forces the muscle to work only to ventilate the lungs. The method helps to get rid of hiccups that arise from nervousness and as a result muscle spasm.
   • Breathe slowly into the paper bag. Polyethylene cannot be used for these purposes - you can suffocate.
   • Take a deep breath, then a few more, until your lungs feel full. Now tilt your head down and hold your breath for 30 seconds. After this, exhale smoothly, effortlessly. This method allows you to cause oxygen deficiency and relax the muscles of the diaphragm.
   • Valsalva maneuver. Take a deep breath, hold your breath and tense your muscles, straining. Stay in this state for 10-15 seconds.
3. Salt and sugar. Irritation of the taste buds located in the mouth helps to improve the functioning of the vagus nerve if hiccups appear from cold or irritation of the nerve when swallowing. It is recommended to dissolve a teaspoon of granulated sugar or salt. For the same purposes, you can use a slice of lemon or a piece of candied honey, a few dragees ascorbic acid.
4. Physical exercise. Exercises combined with regular breathing help control the abdominal muscles and diaphragm. This method helps eliminate neurogenic hiccups and those associated with swallowing air.
   • Stretch by standing on your toes and raising your arms up. This exercise is done while inhaling. As you exhale, lean forward.
   • Sit on a chair, leaning against its back, take a deep breath. Lean forward, wrap your arms around yourself as if you were making an emergency landing on an airplane. Hold this for 10-30 seconds, then exhale smoothly.
   • Do a handstand or lie on your back and hang your head off the bed until it is below your diaphragm.
5. Vomiting reflex. Tickle the root of your tongue with your fingers (no need to make you vomit). This stimulates your gag reflex. The vagus nerve is also responsible for it. Since the gag reflex is stronger than hiccups, the body switches to performing this task. This method of struggle copes with hiccups that arise for any reason.
6. Induce a burp. If hiccups are caused by swallowing air or drinking carbonated drinks, then it is necessary to empty the stomach of the air bubble. To do this, swallow air several times, lean forward a little and tense your abdominal muscles.
7. Water with mint drops. Peppermint tincture helps relax the esophageal sphincter, the ring of muscle that separates the esophagus from the stomach. This will allow excess air to escape from it. This method is suitable if you begin to hiccup after overeating, drinking carbonated drinks or laughing.
8. Impact on reflex zones. Press on biologically active points where the receptors of the nervous system are located. This causes stimulation of the respiratory center, from which the diaphragm is controlled.

   Reflexology helps well with hiccups in adults of a neurogenic nature.

   • Sit down, close your eyes and lightly press on your eyeballs;
   • Intensely massage the back of your hands from hand to elbow;
   • Massage upper sky finger or tip of tongue.
   • Pull your earlobes or apply something cold to them.

Medication treatment of hiccups in adults

Treatment with medications is necessary when long-term persistent hiccups . You will be prescribed medications if:

• hiccups appear regularly;
• the attack lasts more than 48 hours;
• during hiccups, heartburn and chest pain appear;
• hiccups are associated with various diseases.

Treatments for hiccups in adults

Inhalations with carbon dioxide(5-7% carbon dioxide and 93-95% oxygen). Carbon dioxide is an irritant to the respiratory center. This procedure activates its work and forces you to breathe deeply. At the same time, the lungs, diaphragm, and intercostal muscles work smoothly and without unnecessary contractions.

Intranasal catheter insertion to a depth of 10-12 cm. A catheter is a thin flexible tube. It is administered through the nose into the respiratory tract. It irritates the nerve endings of the vagus nerve. The procedure itself is not particularly pleasant. Doctors’ manipulations make you quickly forget about hiccups and switch to your own sensations.

Novocaine blockade of the vagus nerve. 40-50 ml of 0.25% novocaine solution is injected with a needle at the posterior edge of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. Thus, the work of the vagus and phrenic nerves is blocked. This method is used in extreme cases when hiccups are associated with inflammatory processes in the chest.

Drug treatment

Group of drugs	Mechanism of treated action	Representatives	How is it prescribed?
Treatment of hiccups associated with increased excitability of the nervous system, stress
Neuroleptics	Calm the nervous system, reduce the speed of signal transmission from brain centers to organs and muscles. Makes the vagus nerve less sensitive to irritation. They inhibit the activity of reflexes, which include hiccups.	Chlorpromazine Aminazine	During an attack, it is administered intravenously at 25-50 mg 4 times a day. To prevent recurrence, take orally in the same dosage. The drug is administered intramuscularly at 25-50 mg 3-4 times a day.
Treatment of hiccups associated with irritation of the vagus nerve in respiratory diseases
Muscle relaxants	By influencing centers in the spinal cord, it prevents involuntary muscle contractions. Helps relax skeletal muscles, which include the diaphragm. Reduces the excitability of the diaphragm.	Baclofen (Lioresal)	Use 5-20 mg orally 2-4 times a day. It is advisable to consume after meals with 100 ml of liquid.
Antiemetics	Reduce sensitivity nerve cells to irritants. They block the passage of nerve impulses to the brain centers and to the diaphragm. Accelerate gastric emptying and prevent the reflux of food from the stomach into the esophagus. They have an antiemetic effect.	Cerucal (Metamol)
	They speed up the movement of food through the intestines, help empty the stomach faster, and relieve the feeling of fullness. Prevents heartburn and reflux of food from the stomach into the esophagus.	Cisapride Peristyl
	Reduces production of hydrochloric acid, reduces inflammation in gastritis and reflux esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus).	Omeprazole

Even if hiccups really bother you, do not self-medicate. All medications are prescribed only after examination by a doctor. Otherwise, there is a high probability of developing side effects.

Hiccups during pregnancy

A pregnant woman's body undergoes many changes. The nervous system becomes more sensitive and excitable due to the high concentration of hormones, and the growing fetus supports the internal organs. All this can cause hiccups during pregnancy.

Let us hasten to reassure expectant mothers - hiccups in your condition are absolutely safe. It does not harm either you or the baby. In addition, your unborn child regularly hiccups. He does this starting from the 6th week, but you will feel rhythmic tremors only at 26-28 weeks of pregnancy. Hiccups for the fetus and massage of the internal organs, and exercises for the muscles, and prevention of fluid stagnation in the lungs - in general, a complete benefit. But there are also less pleasant cases. The baby may experience oxygen starvation. In this case, hiccups are the result of stimulation of the respiratory center. Therefore, if you are in doubt, tell your gynecologist about your fears. Cardiotocography, ultrasound, listening to the fetal heartbeat and counting its movements will tell you about the baby’s condition.

Causes and mechanism of hiccups during pregnancy

There are many reasons that can cause hiccups in a pregnant woman.

1. Hypothermia. When the temperature drops, your body reflexively tries to maintain heat around the baby and internal organs. And the muscles contract. This contraction of the diaphragm leads to a simulation of the nerve endings of the phrenic nerve. This excitation is transmitted to the brain stem. There, a command is formed to relax the diaphragm and the body does this with the help of hiccups.
2. Stomach fullness. Expectant mothers often eat for two to meet the increased needs of the body. In this case, the stomach increases in size larger than usual. It puts pressure on the diaphragm from below, pinching the vagus nerve and preventing the lungs from fully relaxing. The body tries to eliminate this with the help of sharp and rhythmic contractions of the diaphragm.
3. Drinking carbonated drinks. Bubbles of carbon dioxide are released from the liquid and collect in the upper part of the stomach. The gas bubble inflates the stomach. In this case, the fibers of the vagus nerve that pass along its surface are irritated. In response, the brain causes hiccups to empty the stomach of the air bubble. Therefore, hiccups stop after belching.
4. Esophageal irritation. Poorly chewed food, hot, cold or spicy dishes. Also irritating is caused by stomach contents mixed with digestive juices, which rise up during belching. In this case, you feel heartburn. The vagus nerve, which wraps around the esophagus, is very sensitive to such stimuli.
5. Big fruit. During the third trimester of pregnancy, your baby becomes quite large and your uterus takes up a lot of space in your belly. The remaining internal organs move upward, closer to the lungs. This increases the pressure on the diaphragm. The endings of the phrenic nerve become pinched and transmit discomfort signals to the “diaphragm control center,” which causes you to hiccup.
6. Experiences. Stress, anxiety, and anxiety are inseparable from pregnancy; this is a feature of the functioning of the nervous system during this period. But such loads prevent the brain from properly controlling internal organs. The diaphragm, instead of making smooth breathing movements starts to shrink quickly.

In very rare cases, hiccups in pregnant women can be a symptom of illness.

• Pathologies of the nervous system: concussion, meningitis, encephalitis, tumors. Hernia of the cervical spine. Such diseases disrupt the functioning of the respiratory center and can cause prolonged bouts of hiccups.
• Respiratory diseases: laryngitis, bronchitis, pneumonia. When the vagus and phrenic nerves pass through areas of inflammation, they become compressed and irritated. This leads to distortion of signals coming from the brain.
• Digestive diseases: inflammation of the mucous membrane of the esophagus and stomach. Peptic ulcer, stones in the biliary tract. Such pathologies irritate the sensitive nerve endings, activating hiccups.
• Diseases of the cardiovascular system: heart attack, myocarditis. In severe cases, swelling and inflammation are transmitted to the heart by the vagus nerve. Disturbing the innervation of the diaphragm.

Treatment of hiccups in pregnant women

Treatment of hiccups in pregnant women comes down to the use of reflexology and traditional methods. The use of medications during pregnancy is undesirable, so do not use any medications without a doctor’s prescription.

What not to do?

1. There is no need to scare a pregnant woman. This dubious method of dealing with hiccups can cause involuntary termination of pregnancy, in other words, miscarriage.
2. Don't get carried away with physical exercise. Abdominal pumping and push-ups help you forget about hiccups, but in your situation you shouldn’t do it strength exercises.
3. Holding your breath is especially contraindicated those women who are at risk of premature termination of pregnancy. By holding your breath, you tighten your abdominal muscles and increase the tone of the uterus. Repeated holding of breath reduces the level of oxygen in the blood, and the baby may experience oxygen starvation.
4. Don't overeat or drink carbonated drinks. This rule helps prevent hiccups.
5. Avoid alcohol. Even low-alcohol drinks can harm the fetus and cause intoxication, which is considered one of the causes of hiccups.

What to do?

1. Have a cup of tea. It should be moderately warm and sweet. Drinking slowly in small sips has a good effect on the vagus nerve, which is closely adjacent to the esophagus. If you make tea from chamomile, mint or lemon balm, this drink will help calm the nerves and relax the smooth muscles. Suitable for treating hiccups after stress.
2. Drink some water. Hold your breath and drink 12 small sips of water at a time. Having experienced a lack of oxygen, the respiratory center will quickly take control of the diaphragm. And drinking water helps improve the function of the vagus nerve. If you add a few ice cubes to the water, the cold water will stimulate the temperature receptors of the pharynx and esophagus, which also has a positive effect on the functioning of the vagus nerve. This method helps to cope with hiccups caused by irritation nerve fibers.
3. Cover the glass with a cloth napkin. Try drinking water through a cloth. This will require effort. Such a distracting maneuver helps to interrupt the passage of the signal along the reflex arc.
4. Sing a rhythmic, cheerful song. Singing performs several tasks at once: it normalizes breathing and calms you down. In addition, the baby is pleased to hear your voice.
5. Granulated sugar or refined sugar. Dissolve sugar without drinking. The sweet taste and hard sugar crystals irritate the receptors in the mouth and help neutralize irritations in the lower portions of the vagus nerve.
6. Eat small meals. Small meals help avoid stomach overfilling and pressure on the diaphragm.

Medication treatment for hiccups during pregnancy

Independent use medications can affect the formation of the baby’s organs and cause irreparable harm to him. This applies to synthetic and plant-based drugs.

During pregnancy, medications are prescribed not against hiccups, but to combat diseases that can cause prolonged attacks. In this case, the doctor will select medications approved for expectant mothers and determine the required dosage.

Group of drugs	Mechanism of treated action	Representatives	How is it prescribed?
Treatment of hiccups associated with inflammation of organs near the vagus nerve and diaphragm
Antibiotics	Antibiotics destroy bacteria that cause inflammation. In this way, it is possible to relieve irritation of nearby nerves.	Antibiotics allowed during pregnancy: Amoxiclav Cefazolin Vilprafen	The drugs are taken orally or administered intramuscularly. The doctor selects the method of administration and dose individually depending on the severity of the disease.
Treatment of hiccups associated with bloating and digestive disorders
Carminatives	They crush gas bubbles and help get rid of bloating. Eliminate intestinal colic. Help relieve discomfort after swallowing air.	Espumisan (Simethicone)	2 capsules 3-5 times a day with meals.
Sorbents	Absorbs gases and toxins accumulated in the intestines. Reduces bloating and intestinal colic.	Activated carbon	Use 5-10 tablets for bloating. Take the tablets with a sufficient amount of water or crush them and stir them into 100 ml of liquid. Do not use this remedy if you have peptic ulcers or are constipated.
Treatment of hiccups associated with stress
A drug that replenishes magnesium deficiency	Reduces the excitability of neurons and the transmission of nervous excitation to muscles.	Magne B6	Take 3 tablets 2 times a day with meals, with a glass of water.
Muscle relaxants	By influencing centers in the spinal cord, involuntary muscle contractions are prevented. Helps relax skeletal muscles, which include the diaphragm. Reduces the excitability of the diaphragm.	Baclofen	Use 5-20 mg orally 2-4 times a day.
Treatment of hiccups associated with overeating and dysfunction digestive organs
Antiemetics	They reduce the sensitivity of nerve cells to irritants, block the passage of nerve impulses to the brain centers and to the diaphragm. Accelerate gastric emptying and prevent the reflux of food from the stomach into the esophagus. They have an antiemetic effect.	Cerucal	Prescribe 1 tablet (10 mg) 3-4 times a day. Take 30 minutes before meals with enough water.
Motor stimulants gastrointestinal tract	They speed up the movement of food through the intestines, help empty the stomach faster, and relieve the feeling of fullness. Prevents the reflux of food from the stomach into the esophagus and heartburn.	Cisapride Peristyl	Take 5–10 mg 3–4 times a day 15 minutes before meals and before bedtime. Take 5–20 mg 2–4 times a day. Efficiency increases if taken with grapefruit juice.
Blockers histamine receptors	Reduces the production of hydrochloric acid, reduces inflammation in gastritis and refluxesophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus).	Omeprazole	Prescribe 0.02 g once in the morning (before breakfast). The duration of treatment depends on your health condition.

How to stop hiccups?

Here are proven methods to stop hiccups quickly.

• Fill your mouth with water and try to swallow it without closing your mouth.
• Take a deep breath, strongly tighten your abdominal muscles and freeze in this position for 15 seconds. To enhance the effect, you can sit down, clasping your hands under your ribs.
• Take a deep breath. Thumbs cover your ears by placing them on the cartilaginous protrusion in front of the auricle. Close your nostrils with your little fingers. Close your eyes. Try not to breathe for as long as possible.
• Gray hiccup tea will calm long-term hiccups of nervous origin. Pour 1 tablespoon of plant material into a glass of boiling water. Leave for 10 minutes, drink a tablespoon every half hour.

Why do hiccups occur after eating?

There are many reasons why hiccups occur after eating.

• Acute or hot food irritates the stomach;
• With portions of food you swallow a little air;
• You have eaten more than normal and your stomach is full.

After eating, the stomach increases in size, pinches the vagus nerve at the opening where it passes through the diaphragm and stretches the branches of the vagus nerve lying on it. Such irritation turns into a nerve impulse, similar to a weak current discharge.

Through the sensory fibers that make up the vagus nerve, these impulses reach the “hiccup centers.” One of them is located in the cervical spinal cord, the other in the brain stem. Here another nerve impulse is formed - a command to contract for the diaphragmatic muscle. This impulse is transmitted from top to bottom along motor fibers vagus nerve.

The diaphragm receives a command from the nervous system and contracts. The hiccups continue until full stomach will irritate the sensory endings of the vagus nerve.

Remember, hiccups are your body's attempt to protect your nerves. Therefore, even if a hiccup finds you in the most inopportune place, treat it with gratitude and approach the situation with humor!