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What Causes Hiccups in Newborns?

Hiccups are a common and completely normal occurrence in newborns. While they might seem alarming to new parents, hiccups are generally harmless and often resolve on their own. Understanding why newborns get hiccups can help you feel more at ease and know how to handle them.

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1. What Are Hiccups?

Hiccups occur when the diaphragm (the muscle below the lungs that helps with breathing) contracts involuntarily. This contraction causes a sudden intake of air, which is then stopped abruptly by the closure of the vocal cords, producing the characteristic “hic” sound.

In newborns, this reflex is particularly sensitive because their nervous and digestive systems are still developing.

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2. Common Causes of Newborn Hiccups

Here are the most common reasons why newborns experience hiccups:

1. Feeding Too Quickly

• Babies who feed too fast may swallow air along with milk or formula, causing their stomachs to expand and press against the diaphragm.
• This pressure can trigger hiccups.

2. Overfeeding

• Overfilling the stomach can stretch it, irritating the diaphragm and leading to hiccups.
• Newborns have small stomachs, so even a little extra milk can cause discomfort.

3. Swallowing Air

• Babies who suck on bottles or pacifiers with poor technique may swallow air, which can irritate the diaphragm and lead to hiccups.
• Breastfed babies may also swallow air if they’re not latching properly.

4. Immature Nervous System

• A newborn’s nervous system is still developing, making them more prone to involuntary reflexes like hiccups.
• The phrenic nerve, which controls the diaphragm, is particularly sensitive in infants.

5. Temperature Changes

• Sudden changes in temperature (e.g., being exposed to cold air after a warm bath or feeding) can stimulate the diaphragm and cause hiccups.

6. Reflux or Spitting Up

• Gastroesophageal reflux (GER), where stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, can irritate the diaphragm and trigger hiccups.
• Reflux is common in newborns because the muscle between the stomach and esophagus (the lower esophageal sphincter) is still weak.

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3. How Long Do Newborn Hiccups Last?

• Hiccups in newborns typically last for a few minutes but can occasionally persist for up to 10-15 minutes .
• They are most frequent during the first few months of life and tend to decrease as your baby’s digestive and nervous systems mature.

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4. Are Hiccups Harmful?

No, hiccups are not harmful to newborns. In fact:

• They are a natural reflex and do not cause pain or discomfort.
• Hiccups may even help relieve gas or prevent spitting up by calming the stomach muscles.

However, if hiccups are frequent and accompanied by other symptoms (e.g., excessive crying, vomiting, or poor weight gain), consult your pediatrician to rule out underlying issues like reflux or food sensitivities.

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5. How to Prevent and Relieve Hiccups

While hiccups are normal and usually don’t require treatment, here are some tips to minimize their occurrence or soothe your baby:

During Feeding

• Burp Frequently : Pause during and after feeding to burp your baby. This helps release trapped air from their stomach.
• Feed Slowly : If bottle-feeding, use a slow-flow nipple to prevent your baby from gulping milk too quickly.
• Ensure Proper Latch : For breastfeeding, make sure your baby is latching correctly to avoid swallowing air.

After Feeding

• Keep Baby Upright : Hold your baby upright for 15-20 minutes after feeding to reduce pressure on the diaphragm and prevent reflux.
• Avoid Overfeeding : Feed smaller amounts more frequently to avoid overfilling your baby’s stomach.

General Tips

• Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes : Keep your baby warm and avoid exposing them to cold drafts after feeding.
• Massage Their Back : Gently rubbing or patting your baby’s back can help relax the diaphragm and stop hiccups.
• Offer a Pacifier : Sucking on a pacifier may help regulate breathing and calm the diaphragm.

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6. When Should You Be Concerned?

While hiccups are rarely a cause for concern, contact your pediatrician if:

• Hiccups occur excessively and interfere with feeding or sleep.
• Your baby seems uncomfortable, cries excessively, or shows signs of pain.
• Hiccups are accompanied by vomiting, coughing, or difficulty breathing.
• Your baby isn’t gaining weight properly, which could indicate an underlying issue like reflux or allergies.

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