Hiccups in Babies

How do Hiccups Work?

The human body contains a muscle called the diaphragm which is located at the bottom of the chest. The diaphragm is useful in breathing in that when the diaphragm expands, we inhale; and when the diaphragm contracts, we exhale. Sometimes the diaphragm may experience an irritation and sucking of air then occurs forcefully and involuntarily. This movement of the diaphragm is followed by the closing of the vestibules of vocal cords producing a “hic” sound—this is what we call hiccups.
Everyone gets hiccups including newborn babies. Hiccups in babies occur much the same way it does in adults. Given the delicate nature of a baby’s organs, they are more likely to get hiccups that older people.

Common Causes of Hiccups in Babies

• Feeding:

Poor sucking technique can make the baby to suck in air which the body will attempt to expel through hiccups. This excessive air makes the diaphragm contract, which results in hiccups.

• Temperature:

A sudden drop in temperature can also cause hiccups in babies. If the baby's body gets cold too quickly it may lead to hiccups. Always keep the baby warm.

• GERD:

Hiccups in babies may also be caused by Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux disease. This occurs when the acid in the baby's stomach is regurgitated into the esophagus.

How to Stop Hiccups in Babies

• Effective feeding technique:

Burping and proper positioning of the baby during and after feeding are essential methods of preventing hiccups. Try to feed the baby when he is calm they get extremely hungry. Make sure the hole in the nipple of the feeding bottle is not too big. Make sure the milk falls in a drip, and not in a flow. This will prevent extra air from flowing in thereby preventing hiccups.

• Back Rub:

The simplest way to cure hiccups in babies is to pat it on its back. Hold the baby against your shoulder and pat firmly, but gently on its back. This will result in burping thereby releasing the extra air.

• Gripe Water:

Gripe water is also effective in stopping hiccups in babies. For an infant 2.5ml of gripe water should suffice to stop the hiccups.

• Sugar:

If the baby has been taking solids, put a little sugar on its tongue. The thinking here is that sweetness will distract the nerves thereby preventing the diaphragm from contracting.

• Anise Seeds:

Anise seeds are also said to work effectively as a home remedy for hiccups in babies. Put one cup of hot water over a tablespoon of anise seeds. Once the mixture cools, give the baby a tablespoon of it.