Hiccups are the most common phenomenon that anyone experiences at one time or another. They do not happen too often as we grow older. Infants are more commonly affected, and they even hiccup when they are still in the womb, a fact noticed as early as six weeks following conception. While they may appear perilous at times, these hiccups are usually harmless and may even entertain some infants. Knowing that hiccup attacks are a common reflex can help parents take things easily. These bouts may occur after a feeding session or at moments of excitement. In general, as the internal organs of a baby grow and mature, the occurrence of hiccups lessens in frequency and intensity.
**Why Do Babies Get Hiccups?**
Hiccups have nothing to do with breathing but are related to sudden contractions of the diaphragm, which are responses to irritation or stimulation of this muscle. Most pediatricians attribute these to feeding—either the breast, formula, or other foods—and even the drop in temperature that might be making the infant catch cold. Most bouts of hiccups do not need any treatment and never really disturb a baby unless they are relentless enough to interfere with feeding and sleep. Infants with gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, will more frequently have their hiccup episodes associated with spitting up, coughing, and irritability. If such symptoms appear or if hiccups are uncontrollable and frequent, especially beyond the baby's first birthday, medical advice must be sought. Although persistent hiccup is a rare cause for a serious underlying medical condition, it is always safer to be on the safe side.
**How to Stop Baby Hiccups**
Throughout many generations, several remedies over hiccup have been passed on from one culture to another. Some of the techniques, however, are folklore and not appropriate for babies, such as sudden shocks like bursting a paper bag or placing a cold key down the back. Rough handling or slapping a baby on the back is never recommended. Gentle techniques include rubbing the baby's back, offering a sip of water, or providing something for the baby to suck on. Hiccups often disturb parents more than the baby, although they may cause discomfort during feeding.
To help avoid hiccups, try feeding your baby before they get too hungry. An environment that is very quiet and free of distractions during feeding can also help your baby avoid hiccups. If your baby starts hiccupping while feeding, stop the feeding process and wait for the hiccup to disappear. Sometimes, burping the baby resolves the issue. If not, it may take a few drops of a natural product such as Colic Calm gripe water.
As infants grow, the frequency of their hiccuping generally diminishes. This is a developmental stage that is part of the many behaviors babies eventually outgrow. Generally, hiccups are not a cause for alarm and will eventually disappear; knowledge of their causes and remedies may bring some sense of assurance to parents who are negotiating the early stages of their child's life.
