What Should You Do When Your Baby Has Hiccups?

Feb 16, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jiang Zhiyang
Introduction
Baby hiccups are primarily caused by immature gastrointestinal function. The following methods may help: 1. Pause feeding, hold the baby upright against your shoulder, and gently pat the baby’s back. 2. Lay the baby flat on their back and gently massage the abdomen in circular motions; elevate the head slightly using a pillow or blanket to maintain a head-high, feet-low position. 3. Offer small amounts of warm water or milk. If the baby exhibits severe discomfort, seek immediate medical evaluation at a hospital.

       The primary cause of “hiccups” in infants is immature gastrointestinal function. When your baby hiccups, you may try the following methods to alleviate the condition.

1. What to do when your baby has hiccups.jpg

       1. Temporarily pause feeding and hold your baby upright against your shoulder, gently patting their back with your palm.
2. Lay your baby flat on their back and gently massage their abdomen in a clockwise circular motion to help release trapped gas. Alternatively, place a pillow or folded blanket under the baby’s upper body to maintain a head-elevated, feet-dependent position, which may help relieve hiccups.
3. Offer a small amount of warm water or milk to ease tension in the gastrointestinal tract or diaphragm. If hiccups occur frequently, accompanied by vomiting, decreased appetite, or weight loss, consult a pediatrician for a thorough evaluation.