Newborn hiccups are common and harmless, but they can sometimes cause concern for new parents. Understanding what triggers hiccups in newborns and knowing the best methods to alleviate them is essential. In this article, we will explore what hiccups are, their causes, and detailed strategies for managing hiccups in newborns.
What Are Newborn Hiccups?
Hiccups occur when the diaphragm—the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen—contracts involuntarily. This contraction is followed by a sudden closure of the vocal cords, producing the familiar “hic” sound. In newborns, hiccups are more frequent because their diaphragms are still developing and adjusting to breathing outside the womb.
Hiccups generally do not bother babies, though parents may sometimes feel anxious about their frequency.
Causes of Hiccups in Newborns
Newborn hiccups can be triggered by several factors. Understanding these causes can help parents prevent or manage hiccups more effectively.
Feeding Too Quickly
One common cause of newborn hiccups is rapid feeding. Whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, if the baby swallows milk too quickly, it can lead to air being trapped in the stomach, which may trigger hiccups.
SEE ALSO: Can We Feed Newborns During Hiccups?
Overfeeding
Feeding a newborn too much can stretch the baby’s stomach, which puts pressure on the diaphragm. This pressure may lead to spasms, resulting in hiccups.
Air Swallowing During Feeding
Newborns often swallow air while feeding, especially when their latch is not proper or the bottle nipple allows too much air to flow. This swallowed air can cause the stomach to expand, irritating the diaphragm and causing hiccups.
Sudden Changes in Temperature
Newborns are sensitive to changes in temperature. A sudden shift in temperature, such as moving from a warm room to a cooler one or changing clothing, can cause the diaphragm to contract and trigger hiccups.
Excitement or Overstimulation
Newborns can become easily excited or overstimulated, which can sometimes lead to hiccups. Overstimulation could be from loud noises, too much movement, or a change in surroundings.
Is It Safe to Treat Newborn Hiccups?
Before attempting to treat newborn hiccups, it’s crucial to understand that hiccups are generally safe for babies. They are a normal part of development, and most babies are not disturbed by them. However, if hiccups last for an extended period or occur frequently, parents may want to intervene.
When to Worry About Hiccups
Though newborn hiccups are generally harmless, there are situations where parents should seek medical advice. If hiccups occur frequently and are accompanied by signs of distress, vomiting, or poor feeding, it may be wise to consult a pediatrician. Persistent hiccups could sometimes be a sign of an underlying digestive issue, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Effective Methods to Manage Newborn Hiccups
Here are some safe, natural ways to manage and potentially prevent hiccups in newborns:
Burp the Baby Frequently
Burping your baby during and after feeding can help release trapped air from the stomach, reducing the likelihood of hiccups. Gentle burping breaks in the middle of feeding sessions can prevent air buildup. When burping, hold the baby upright and gently pat or rub the baby’s back in circular motions until the baby burps.
Slow Down Feeding
Feeding at a slower pace can help prevent air from being swallowed and reduce the chances of hiccups. If bottle-feeding, choose a slow-flow nipple that regulates the milk flow and allows the baby to feed at a more controlled pace. In breastfeeding, ensuring a proper latch can prevent air from being swallowed.
Use Pacifiers
Sucking on a pacifier can help relax a baby’s diaphragm and stop hiccups. Pacifiers help regulate the baby’s breathing and provide comfort, which may reduce the occurrence of hiccups. However, avoid introducing pacifiers too early, as it may interfere with breastfeeding if the baby has not yet established a good latch.
Feed the Baby in an Upright Position
Feeding a newborn in an upright or semi-upright position helps milk flow smoothly into the stomach, reducing the chance of air being swallowed. After feeding, holding the baby upright for 10-15 minutes can help the milk settle and reduce the likelihood of hiccups.
Keep the Baby Calm
Overstimulation can sometimes cause hiccups, so try to keep your baby calm during and after feedings. If you notice that hiccups tend to follow excitement, minimize loud noises, rapid movements, or intense activities that could startle the baby. Holding the baby close and speaking softly can help.
What Not to Give a Newborn for Hiccups
While managing newborn hiccups, parents may come across various remedies. Some traditional methods, however, are not recommended for newborns.
Avoid Giving Water or Honey
Newborns should not be given water, honey, or any other liquids besides breast milk or formula. Introducing these substances before six months can pose a choking hazard and may lead to other health complications, such as botulism (in the case of honey).
Avoid Using Sudden Startle Methods
Some believe that startling a baby can stop hiccups, but this can be harmful and is not recommended. Startling can distress the baby and cause unnecessary anxiety.
Preventing Hiccups in Newborns
Prevention is often the best solution when it comes to newborn hiccups. While it is impossible to prevent hiccups entirely, a few practices can reduce their occurrence.
Establish a Consistent Feeding Routine
Creating a feeding routine that avoids overfeeding and provides regular feeding intervals can help prevent hiccups. Feeding your baby when they show signs of hunger, rather than waiting until they are crying or upset, can reduce the chances of swallowing air during feeding.
Avoid Sudden Changes in Activity
If your baby tends to hiccup after being moved suddenly, try to minimize abrupt changes in movement. Gentle handling and transitions from one activity to another can prevent overexciting the baby’s diaphragm and causing hiccups.
Monitor the Baby’s Temperature
Keeping your baby at a consistent, comfortable temperature can prevent hiccups caused by sudden temperature changes. Ensure the baby is dressed appropriately for the weather, and avoid placing them in areas with drafts or sudden temperature fluctuations.
When to Contact a Doctor
While hiccups are typically nothing to worry about, persistent or frequent hiccups that interfere with feeding or sleep may require medical attention. If the hiccups last for more than a few hours, or if your baby seems uncomfortable or distressed, it’s essential to seek advice from a healthcare provider.
Signs to Watch For
Hiccups lasting longer than an hour.
Hiccups causing difficulty in feeding or sleeping.
Signs of discomfort, vomiting, or excessive crying during hiccups.
Frequent hiccups throughout the day without apparent triggers.
Conclusion
In most cases, newborn hiccups are a normal, harmless part of a baby’s development. While they may seem concerning, they generally do not cause any discomfort to your baby. By understanding the common causes of hiccups and employing safe, gentle methods to manage or prevent them, parents can feel more confident in caring for their newborns. It’s essential to remember that if hiccups are persistent or accompanied by other symptoms, seeking medical advice is always a good course of action.
New parents should feel reassured that hiccups are a natural phenomenon that often diminish as the baby’s digestive and respiratory systems mature.
