Hiccups that won't stop

Overview

Most hiccups stop within minutes. Hiccups lasting over 2 days can be from reflux, nerve irritation, medicines, or other illness.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Hiccups that won't stop

Less common

• Trouble sleeping
• Weight loss from trouble eating
• Tiredness

When to get medical care

Causes

Many causes.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Diagnosis

Exam.

Treatment

Try remedies.

Self-care

• Sip cold water
• Hold your breath
• Drink a glass of cold water slowly
• Breathe into a paper bag briefly
• Avoid fizzy drinks and big meals
• Sip ice water

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Eat slowly

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a gastroenterologist (stomach and gut doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Adults: More likely with reflux.
• Men: Long-lasting hiccups more common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Treatable.

Medicines can stop stubborn hiccups.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• Could my medicines cause this?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Hiccups that won't stop