Posted on May 14, 2009 in latest news
Although many parents are concerned about baby hiccups, hiccuping is extremely common in newborns. Hiccups in babies decrease with age and they are rare by the time baby is 9 months old. Baby hiccups are not a health concern and they usually stop in 5 to 10 minutes.
How are Hiccups Caused?
Hiccups are caused when the diaphragm (a muscle present under the lungs and above the stomach, which is involved in breathing) contracts. Due to the contraction, the air is sucked into the windpipe and the vocal chords are closed suddenly. This results in hiccups and the ’hic’ sound.
Why are Baby Hiccups Caused?
Hiccups in babies may be caused due to the following reasons:
- Swallowing air in huge amounts
- Pressure on the diaphragm due to full stomach
- Gulping breast milk, other foods quickly
- Excitement
Most babies hiccup after eating. In some cases hiccups can start without any reason.
How to Manage Baby Hiccups?
Baby hiccups can be managed in the following ways:
- To reduce baby hiccups, feed slowly
- Allowing the baby to burp between feeding can also reduce the hiccups
- Breastfeeding the baby or offering water can stop hiccups
- Offering your baby something to suck can stop the hiccups
Not doing any of the above when your baby hiccups can also work, as hiccups generally stop on their own in 5 to 10 minutes. Hiccups are rarely caused due to health problems, but if the hiccups continue for a couple of hours, it is important to consult your doctor.
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