Types of Hiccups

Doctors usually describe hiccups by how long they last. Their causes and the need for tests differ.

By duration

• Short-lived (acute) hiccups: a few minutes to under 48 hours. Usually triggered by food, drink or excitement and settle by themselves.
• Persistent hiccups: last more than 48 hours. These need a doctor's review to look for a cause.
• Intractable hiccups: last more than a month. They can lead to weight loss, sleep loss and exhaustion and often need specialist care.

By cause

• Gastrointestinal: reflux, overeating, alcohol, fizzy drinks
• Nerve-related: irritation of the phrenic or vagus nerve
• Central: stroke, tumour or other brain conditions
• Metabolic: kidney failure, diabetes, electrolyte problems
• Drug-related: some steroids, sedatives and chemotherapy medicines
• Post-operative: after surgery or anaesthesia
• Psychogenic: stress or anxiety, though this is diagnosed only after other causes are ruled out

Hiccups in different groups

• Newborns and infants: common after feeds.
• Adults, especially men, more often have persistent hiccups.
• People after surgery or on certain medicines may have long episodes.

Ayurvedic view

Traditional texts describe several kinds of hikka, differing in severity. These do not map exactly to modern types.

Key point

Duration is the most useful guide to when to seek help.

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.