Everything You Should Know About Constant Hiccups
Most people experience the occasional hiccup—typically harmless and short-lived. But if they keep coming back or linger longer than usual, it’s natural to ask: could this mean something more serious?
In this in-depth guide, we explore the medical facts around frequent hiccups, what causes them, when to see a doctor, and how they’re treated.
What Are Hiccups?
Hiccups are sudden, involuntary movements of the diaphragm the muscle just below your lungs that helps you breathe. When this muscle spasms, it causes your vocal cords to close quickly, creating the familiar “hic” sound. Most hiccups are brief and harmless, often resolving on their own.
They usually start without warning and often resolve on their own within a few minutes. Most hiccups are triggered by minor irritants, such as swallowing air while eating, consuming fizzy drinks, sudden excitement, or temperature changes in the stomach.
When Are Hiccups Considered Abnormal?
While hiccups that last a few minutes are normal, those that persist longer could be a sign of an underlying issue. Doctors categorise hiccups into three types:
Acute hiccups: Last less than 48 hours
Persistent hiccups: Last more than 48 hours
Intractable hiccups: Continue for more than 2 months
Persistent or intractable hiccups can lead to fatigue, difficulty eating or sleeping, and emotional distress—warranting further medical evaluation.
What Causes Frequent or Ongoing Hiccups?
Several medical issues can contribute to frequent or chronic hiccups. These include:
1. Digestive Triggers
Problems such as acid reflux (GORD), stomach bloating, or overeating can irritate the diaphragm. Conditions like gastritis, ulcers, or a hiatal hernia may also be culprits.
2. Nerve Irritation
The vagus and phrenic nerves help control diaphragm movement. If these nerves are irritated—due to a sore throat, goitre, chest infection, or recent surgery—hiccups can result.
3. Neurological Conditions
Issues affecting the brain or spinal cord like strokes or nerve damage, can disrupt signals that control the diaphragm. This may lead to frequent or long-lasting hiccups. If hiccups come with other signs like confusion, weakness, or speech changes, it’s best to see a doctor.
4. Metabolic or Chemical Imbalances
Low levels of sodium or calcium, kidney failure, diabetes complications, or infections may all impact how nerves and muscles function, potentially triggering hiccups.
5. Medication Side Effects
Some medications—particularly steroids, sedatives, chemotherapy drugs, or opioids—can list hiccups as a side effect.
Can Frequent Hiccups Be a Sign of a Serious Illness?
In rare cases, yes. While most hiccups are harmless, recurring or prolonged episodes could point to more significant issues, including:
Gastrointestinal conditions (e.g. ulcers, GORD, inflammation)
Lung problems (e.g. pneumonia, pleurisy)
Heart conditions (e.g. pericarditis or recent cardiac events)
Nervous system disorders or brain injuries
Certain cancers near the chest, diaphragm, or brain
If hiccups are accompanied by other symptoms like pain, vomiting, shortness of breath, or weight loss, it’s important to see a GP.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Book an appointment with your GP if:
Hiccups last more than 48 hours
They interfere with sleep, eating, or your daily routine
You’ve had a recent surgery, illness, or injury
You notice other symptoms alongside the hiccups
They return frequently without a clear reason
Your doctor may carry out a physical examination, take a full history, and run blood tests, imaging, or refer you for a specialist review if needed.
How Are Frequent Hiccups Diagnosed?
Diagnosing the cause of ongoing hiccups usually begins with a physical exam and review of your medical history. Your doctor may also order:
Blood tests to check kidney, liver, and electrolyte levels
Imaging (chest X-ray or CT scan) to detect masses or nerve irritation
Endoscopy to look for reflux, ulcers, or tumours in the upper GI tract
Neurological assessment if brain-related causes are suspected
Pinpointing the cause is crucial to guiding treatment.
How Are Frequent Hiccups Treated?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Common approaches may include:
Reflux management with antacids or proton pump inhibitors
Lifestyle changes: avoiding trigger foods, eating slowly, limiting alcohol
Medication adjustment if hiccups are a drug side effect
Relaxation techniques for stress-related hiccups
Referral to a specialist for nerve, metabolic, or neurological issues
In rare cases, more advanced interventions such as nerve blocks or surgical procedures may be considered.
What Can You Do at Home to Prevent Hiccups?
Preventing hiccups is largely about avoiding known triggers:
Eat slowly and chew thoroughly
Avoid overeating or lying down immediately after meals
Reduce carbonated drinks and alcohol
Stay hydrated and manage stress
Keep a food and symptom diary to identify patterns
If your hiccups are triggered by stress or anxiety, mindfulness techniques or therapy may also help. Keeping a diary of your meals and hiccup patterns may help identify personal triggers.
Concerned About Persistent Hiccups?
If your hiccups are lasting longer than usual, interfering with daily life, or happening frequently, it’s time to get them checked. At North Brighton Medical, our experienced GPs provide thorough assessment and tailored care for all kinds of health concerns, including unexplained symptoms like persistent hiccups. Find out what’s behind your hiccups and get the help you need. Visit North Brighton Medical or call our friendly team to schedule a consultation.