Understanding Baby Hiccups: A Complete Guide for Proactive Parents

Understanding Baby Hiccups: A Complete Guide for Proactive Parents

Blog Summary:

• Typical Baby Hiccup Patterns
• Warning Signs of Baby Hiccups
• When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
• When to Consult Your Pediatrician
• Tips for Helping Your Baby Get Rid of Hiccups
• Movement Lesson - The Place Were Optimal Development Begins!
  • A Short Story by Erin Fulks

• Get A Movement Review And Movement Lesson Support

• Comparison of AAP and Hospital Information
• Conclusion
• Works Cited

Hiccups are common in babies, often causing concern for new parents (1). This article provides a comprehensive guide to baby hiccups, drawing on information from both hospital doctors and pediatricians. We'll explore typical hiccup patterns, warning signs, and tips for managing hiccups in your little one.

Typical Baby Hiccup Patterns

Hiccups in babies are usually harmless and don't bother them much. They are caused by spasms of the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen and plays a vital role in breathing (1). When the diaphragm contracts involuntarily, it causes a sudden intake of air, followed by the quick closure of the vocal cords, producing the characteristic "hic" sound (1).

Both hospital doctors and pediatricians agree that hiccups are common in babies under a year old (1). They can occur as early as 9 weeks in the womb (2) and may even be a daily occurrence for some babies (1). While the exact reason for frequent hiccups in newborns is unknown, some experts suggest they may help babies learn to regulate their breathing (1) or expel excess air from their stomachs 1. It's also been suggested that hiccups may affect brain development (2).

Hiccups are most prevalent in newborns, who spend as much as 2.5% of their time hiccupping (3). This frequency diminishes in infancy, with occasional brief recurrences throughout life (3). Interestingly, babies even have hiccups in the womb, sometimes as early as 21 weeks (1). One theory suggests that these fetal hiccups could be a way for babies to regulate the amount of amniotic fluid in the amniotic sac (4).

It's important to remember that hiccups are just one of many sounds and reflexes that newborns exhibit. They also grunt, squeak, sigh, and sneeze, all as part of their normal development (5). These actions, along with their movements and cries, are reactions to the new sensations they experience after being in the womb (5).

During hiccuping episodes, distinctive fetal and neonatal heart rate patterns have been observed (6). This suggests a complex physiological process is involved, even though hiccups themselves are usually harmless.

Another interesting point is that a sudden change in stomach temperature, such as from drinking a hot beverage followed by a cold one, can trigger hiccups in babies (1).

Warning Signs of Baby Hiccups

Although hiccups are generally normal, there are some instances where they might warrant further attention. Here are some warning signs to look out for:

• Hiccups that last for an extended period: While occasional hiccups are normal, prolonged hiccups (lasting more than 48 hours) could indicate an underlying medical condition (3).
• Hiccups accompanied by other symptoms: If your baby's hiccups are accompanied by fussiness, back arching, spitting up, or poor weight gain, it's essential to consult your pediatrician (7). These could be signs of gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) or other digestive issues (7).
• Hiccups that interfere with feeding or sleeping: If hiccups disrupt your baby's feeding or sleep patterns, it's best to seek advice from your pediatrician (1).
• Changes in fetal movement patterns: A mother's perception of fetal hiccups, especially any significant deviation from the usual pattern, can be an important indicator of fetal well-being and may be related to the risk of stillbirth (8).
• Disorganized sucking, swallowing, and breathing: These can be associated with oropharyngeal aspiration, which can lead to illness or developmental problems (9). If you notice any issues with your baby's feeding, consult your pediatrician.

It's worth noting that there's a myth that fetal hiccups indicate potential danger in utero (10). However, this has not been validated in humans, and fetal hiccups are generally considered a normal occurrence.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

While most hiccups are harmless, it's crucial to be aware of situations that require immediate medical attention. If any of the following accompanies your baby's hiccups, seek medical help right away:

• Difficulty breathing: If your baby struggles to breathe or their breathing becomes rapid and shallow, it could indicate a respiratory problem.
• Bluish skin discoloration: This is a sign of cyanosis, which means your baby is not getting enough oxygen.
• Lethargy or unresponsiveness: If your baby becomes unusually sleepy or difficult to wake up, it could be a sign of a serious underlying issue.
• Fever: A high fever, especially in young infants, can indicate infection.

When to Consult Your Pediatrician

If you have any concerns about your baby's hiccups, even if they don't seem like an emergency, it's always best to discuss them with your pediatrician. Some non-emergency concerns include:

• Frequent or prolonged hiccups: If your baby seems to hiccup very often or for extended periods, your pediatrician can help determine if there's an underlying cause.
• Hiccups that cause distress: If your baby seems bothered by their hiccups, your pediatrician may be able to offer suggestions for relief.
• Hiccups that interfere with feeding: If hiccups make it difficult for your baby to feed properly, your pediatrician can assess their feeding habits and provide guidance.
• Hiccups in terminally ill babies: While this is a sensitive topic, it's important to be aware that hiccups can sometimes be more common in babies with terminal illnesses (11). If your baby has a serious medical condition, discuss any concerns about hiccups with your pediatrician.

Tips for Helping Your Baby Get Rid of Hiccups

While hiccups usually go away on their own, there are a few things you can try to help your baby get rid of them:

• Burping your baby: Burping can help release trapped air in the stomach, which may be contributing to the hiccups (12).
• Offering a pacifier: Sucking on a pacifier can help relax the diaphragm and may stop the hiccups (12).
• Changing your baby's position: Sometimes, simply changing your baby's position can help alleviate hiccups (13).
• Gripe water: Some parents find that gripe water, an over-the-counter herbal remedy, can help with hiccups (14).
• Taking a break from feeding: If your baby gets hiccups during feeding, try pausing for a few minutes to burp them or change their position (12).
• Giving smaller, more frequent feedings: This can help prevent overfeeding and reduce the chances of hiccups (15).
• Ensuring proper latch during breastfeeding: A good latch can help prevent your baby from swallowing too much air, which can trigger hiccups (15).
• Holding your baby upright: This position can help keep air from entering the stomach too quickly, which can trigger hiccups (16). Hold your baby in an upright position for up to 20 minutes after a feed (16).

Movement Lesson - The place where optimal development begins!

Short Story by Erin Fulks

I'm a mom of eight, and four of my beautiful children have special needs. Like you, I've spent countless hours worrying, advocating, and searching for the best possible care for my kids. I know the feeling of being overwhelmed, of not knowing where to turn, especially when medical professionals don't seem to understand my concerns. I've spent a combined year of my life in hospital rooms with my children and even more time than that in doctors' offices. I struggled to be heard for a long time until I learned a crucial lesson about how the medical system works.

Here's the truth: Doctors operate based on parameters – specific thresholds that indicate when a situation requires medical intervention. Think of it like red lines on the high and low end of a bar. As long as your child is within those lines, they are considered "fine," even if you see worrying signs and trends towards a red line. It's only when a red line is crossed– when they fail a specific test – that action is typically taken. I learned this the hard way in the NICU with one of my babies.

I was constantly told my baby had to "prove" he needed to go home on oxygen, meaning he had to fail three room air trials. He had to "prove" he couldn't eat on his own before getting a g-tube, meaning he had to fail to gain weight. His platelet levels had to plummet to a dangerously low level before he'd receive a transfusion. It felt like we were constantly waiting for him to fail before anyone would take action.

It's a terrifying feeling, watching your child struggle and knowing that help won't come until they reach a crisis point. You're left feeling helpless and alone, with your worries dismissed as "normal" parental anxiety.

That's where Movement Lesson changed everything for me and my family. Movement Lesson isn't about waiting for failure. It's about recognizing those early warning signs – the subtle shifts that indicate your child is veering away from optimal development. It's about taking proactive steps before they reach those medical red lines. Instead of waiting for a crisis, ML taught me how to actively guide my children, special needs and typical, towards their best possible future, every day.

**Movement Lesson (ML) gave me the tools to understand my children's developmental trends. I learned to see when they were moving away from their potential, and, most importantly, I learned how to gently guide them back on track. ML doesn't wait for a child to cross a red line; they have a blue line representing optimal development, and every lesson is designed to move your child closer to that blue line. **

While my baby was in the NICU, I did hours of Movement Lesson with him every day. I refused to let him be "the driver" as the doctors suggested; I knew he needed my help to learn and grow. I taught him to see, to eat, to develop – things that were overlooked by the medical team as they were focused only on his vital signs (rightfully so. Medical teams are necessary. My work allowed me to be an important part of the team. Taking care of crises is exhausting, and resources are limited. I understand the need for the parameters in the medical field. Therefore, I finally recognize that I, as the parent, have to take a more active role in my child's developmental optimization when the emergency is over and I am out of the hospital and in my home with my nagging worries)

Movement Lesson is incredibly effective. In my experience, one hour of Movement Lesson can be equivalent to ten hours of traditional therapy. Because ML addresses, I was addressing underlying movement issues and making progress that wouldn't have been possible otherwise. During my son's 6 week NICU stay, I estimate I gave him the equivalent of 27 years of traditional therapy had he received an hour a week for 45 weeks out of a year. Imagine the difference that made!

I highly recommend Movement Lesson to anyone who wants to be empowered and learn how to passionately and confidently advocate for your child's needs. It helps you communicate your concerns effectively to medical professionals by using their language. Instead of saying, "I'm worried," you can say, "I've noticed a concerning trend. My child used to eat well, but now they're choking frequently. What are your parameters for addressing this? What other signs are you looking for that would indicate a need for intervention?"

If you are doing Movement Lesson and your child does reach a medical parameter, don't panic. It doesn't mean it failed. It means there's a more serious issue that requires medical attention, and you should not delay in seeking after it. Movement Lesson can help you navigate these situations, advocate for your child, and work alongside medical professionals to ensure the best possible outcome.

Movement Lesson has given me hope and peace of mind. It's given me the tools to truly understand my children's movement and development needs and to help them thrive, regardless of their challenges. If you're a parent who feels lost, overwhelmed, or unheard, I encourage you to explore Movement Lesson. It can empower you to take control of your child's development and guide them towards a brighter future. You are not alone, and there is hope. Let Movement Lesson be your guide on this journey.

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1. Get a FREE Movement Review on our Facebook Group and learn about your child’s specific optimal development needs- https://www.facebook.com/groups/MovementLessonParentsPractitioners

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Learn what optimal and non-optimal development looks like in our FREE baby webinar series. Go to, https://www.movementlesson.academy/baby-milestone-webinars 

Comparison of AAP and Hospital Information

Both the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and hospitals generally agree on the typical patterns and warning signs of baby hiccups. Both sources emphasize that hiccups are a common and usually harmless reflex in babies. They also acknowledge that hiccups can start in the womb and may occur frequently in newborns.

However, there are some subtle differences in the information provided. For example, the AAP provides more detailed information about the possible relationship between hiccups and other digestive issues, such as GERD (17). Hospitals, however, tend to focus more on the mechanics of hiccups and the possible causes related to feeding and air swallowing (18).

Conclusion

Baby hiccups are a common and usually harmless phenomenon that often resolves on its own, typically by the time a baby reaches one year old (15). By understanding typical hiccup patterns, recognizing warning signs, and knowing when to seek medical attention, parents can better manage their baby's hiccups and ensure their well-being. While hiccups can sometimes be a cause for concern, they can also be a sign of healthy development, possibly even playing a role in brain development (2). Parental observation and awareness are key to differentiating between normal hiccups and those that might require further attention. If you have any concerns or questions, don't hesitate to consult your pediatrician.

Works Cited

1. Newborn Baby Hiccups: Causes, Cures and Prevention - The Bump, accessed December 31, 2024, https://www.thebump.com/a/newborn-hiccups-why-babies-get-how-to-get-rid
2. Newborn baby hiccups could be key to brain development | UCL News, accessed December 31, 2024, https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/2019/nov/newborn-baby-hiccups-could-be-key-brain-development
3. Hiccups: A new explanation for the mysterious reflex - PMC, accessed December 31, 2024, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3504071/
4. Why do babies get hiccups in the womb? - BabyCenter, accessed December 31, 2024, https://www.babycenter.com/pregnancy/your-body/is-it-normal-for-my-baby-to-have-hiccups-in-the-womb_2647
5. How Your Newborn Behaves - HealthyChildren.org, accessed December 31, 2024, https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/Pages/How-Your-Newborn-Behaves.aspx
6. Fetal hiccups: an associated fetal heart rate pattern - PubMed, accessed December 31, 2024, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6866368/
7. Child hiccups are seldom cause for alarm - OSF HealthCare, accessed December 31, 2024, https://www.osfhealthcare.org/blog/child-hiccups/
8. Alterations in maternally perceived fetal movement and their association with late stillbirth - PubMed Central, accessed December 31, 2024, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6042603/
9. Identifying Aspiration Among Infants in Neonatal Intensive Care Units Through Occupational Therapy Feeding Evaluations, accessed December 31, 2024, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7018452/
10. Fetal hiccups won't harm your baby – they're totally normal! | Your Pregnancy Matters, accessed December 31, 2024, https://utswmed.org/medblog/fetal-hiccups-pregnancy/
11. Managing hiccups - PMC - PubMed Central, accessed December 31, 2024, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3114667/
12. How Can I Cure My Newborn's Hiccups? - Healthline, accessed December 31, 2024, https://www.healthline.com/health/childrens-health/newborn-hiccups
13. www.verywellhealth.com, accessed December 31, 2024, https://www.verywellhealth.com/newborn-hiccups-7552956#:~:text=Hiccups%20are%20a%20natural%20reflex%20for%20babies%20and%20almost%20always,your%20baby%20hold%20their%20breath.
14. Here's What to Do When Your Baby Has the Hiccups - Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials, accessed December 31, 2024, https://health.clevelandclinic.org/heres-what-to-do-when-your-baby-has-the-hiccups
15. How to Get Rid of Baby Hiccups - Verywell Health, accessed December 31, 2024, https://www.verywellhealth.com/newborn-hiccups-7552956
16. How to Stop Baby Hiccups: Home Remedies and Techniques - Kendamil, accessed December 31, 2024, https://kendamil.com/blogs/blog/how-to-stop-baby-hiccups-home-remedies-and-techniques
17. Gastroesophageal Reflux & Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) - HealthyChildren.org, accessed December 31, 2024, https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/abdominal/Pages/GERD-Reflux.aspx
18. How to Get Rid of Newborn Baby Hiccups: 5 Tips - Baptist Health, accessed December 31, 2024, https://www.baptisthealth.com/blog/mother-and-baby-care/how-to-get-rid-of-newborn-baby-hiccups-5-tips