Hiccups FAQ: Quick Answers to Common Questions
Written from the public health sources listed below. This article has not yet been reviewed by a clinician. See our editorial policy.
Short answers to common questions. For more depth, follow the links.
What causes hiccups?
A sudden, involuntary contraction of the diaphragm followed by vocal cord closure.[1] Triggers include eating fast, large meals, fizzy drinks, alcohol, swallowed air and strong emotions, and often no cause is found.[2] See why hiccups happen.
How long do hiccups last?
Usually minutes. Over 48 hours is considered persistent and needs a check-up.[3]
What is the safest way to try to stop hiccups?
Pause eating and drinking, breathe slowly, and try small sips of water or a brief comfortable breath-hold. None is guaranteed. See how to stop hiccups.
Does scaring someone cure hiccups?
There is no reliable evidence it does, and it can cause harm. We recommend against it.[4]
Is breathing into a paper bag a good idea?
Some sources list it,[5] but it is unproven and interferes with normal breathing, so we do not recommend it.
Does sugar or lemon stop hiccups?
They are folk remedies without strong evidence.[1] See hiccup remedies.
Why do I get hiccups after eating?
Usually speed, portion size, and certain foods and drinks.[2][3] See hiccups after eating.
Why do I get hiccups after drinking water?
Gulping can swallow air, and very cold water can trigger them.[2] See hiccups after drinking water.
Can stress cause hiccups?
Stress and strong emotions are commonly listed as triggers.[2] See hiccups and stress.
Why do I get hiccups at night?
Late meals, alcohol, fizzy drinks and reflux are common connections.[3][1] See hiccups at night.
Are baby hiccups normal?
Yes, they are common and usually harmless.[4] Ask your pediatrician if they are long-lasting, frequent or come with vomiting. See hiccups in babies.
Are hiccups ever serious?
Usually not, but hiccups that last more than 48 hours can reflect an underlying condition or medicine effect.[6][1] See persistent hiccups.
When should I see a doctor?
After 48 hours, if they keep coming back, or if they interfere with eating, sleeping or breathing.[7][3] Seek urgent care for severe chest pain, significant breathing difficulty, fainting or new neurological symptoms.[4][1]
What does the diaphragm do?
It is your main breathing muscle. See what is the diaphragm.
Explore the Practical Hiccups Video Guide
Want the answers in one calm walkthrough? See the DrHiccups Practical Relief Guide.
Educational only. The guide does not replace medical advice or treatment.
Related reading
References
- Hiccups. Cleveland Clinic.
- Hiccups. NI Direct (content adapted from the NHS website).
- Are hiccups dangerous? UPMC HealthBeat.
- Hiccups. Healthdirect Australia.
- Hiccups. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
- Hiccups. Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan Health.
- Hiccups. NHS 111 Wales (content adapted from NHS UK).
Medical disclaimer: this article is general information, not medical advice.