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What Are the Causes of Hiccups in Babies?

Most newborns suffer from hiccups. They usually start when the baby is still in the uterus; an expectant mother can feel the rhythmic movements through her belly. There are a number of reasons why babies get hiccups.

  1. Facts

    • Hiccups often start during or after a feeding. Babies swallow quite a bit of air when eating, especially when they drink from a bottle. The hiccups are the result of contractions or spasms of the diaphragm.

      Hiccups do not hurt your baby. They can be frequent, especially for babies younger than 1 year old, but normally they only last a few minutes. Some episodes can be hours long, however.

    Diaphragm Workout

    • Hiccups are believed to serve as a diaphragm workout when babies grow in the uterus so breathing outside the womb will be easier.

    Immature Internal Organs

    • The relative immaturity of baby's internal organs are believed to be another cause of hiccups. Once the child gets older and his organs develop, hiccups will occur less frequently.

    Drop in Temperature

    • A drop in temperature can also cause your baby to hiccup, says Lynnette Mazur, professor of pediatrics at the University of Texas Health Science Center and the Shriner's Hospital in Houston. When a baby gets cold, she responds with hiccups.

    Nerve Irritation

    • Irritation to the nerves that control the diaphragm can also result in hiccups. This could stem from hot, spicy foods or carbonated beverages.

    Gastroesophageal Reflux

    • Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) could be the reason for your baby's frequent hiccups. If you suspect this might be the reason, talk to your doctor, especially if your baby also spits up, coughs and shows irritability.Only a medical exam can rule out GERD.

    Solution

    • The best thing to do about your baby's hiccups is to wait them out. Hold her upright against your shoulder and be patient--patting her back might make her feel better. If the hiccups start during a feeding, it is safe to continue. You can also continue with the feeding once hiccups have ceased.

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