Symptoms of Hiccups

The main sign is a repeated, sudden "hic" sound with a jerk in the chest or upper abdomen, often every few seconds.

What people notice

• A quick contraction in the chest or upper belly followed by a short, sharp sound
• A tight or fluttering feeling in the throat
• A pause in breathing for a moment with each hiccup
• Mild discomfort or embarrassment when it keeps going

When hiccups last a long time

• Trouble sleeping and tiredness
• Difficulty eating, weight loss or dehydration
• Chest or stomach discomfort, reflux or belching
• Low mood, anxiety or poor concentration
• Speech disturbance

Signs that point to a bigger problem

• Hiccups lasting more than 48 hours
• Chest pain, shortness of breath, vomiting or black stools
• Weakness, numbness, confusion, headache or trouble speaking
• Hiccups after a head injury or with fever and neck stiffness
• Hiccups that start after a new medicine

In babies

Newborns hiccup often, especially after feeds. It is usually normal, unless the baby seems distressed, is not feeding well or is vomiting a lot.

Key point

A few minutes of hiccups is normal. Call 112 or 102 for hiccups with chest pain, breathing trouble or stroke-like signs.

Before your appointment

Note when the hiccups began, how long they last, what seems to trigger or ease them, and whether they disturb sleep or eating. List all medicines, alcohol use, recent surgery and any reflux, chest pain, weakness or breathing trouble. Bring past reports. Ask about tests, treatment options and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.