Causes of Hiccups in Newborns

Hiccups—commonly known as “belching”—are a normal physiological phenomenon, especially likely to occur after eating. When hiccups occur in newborns, parents often become anxious, fearing that they may indicate an underlying health issue. So, what are the possible causes of hiccups in newborns? Below, we address this question.

Causes of Hiccups in Newborns

1. Exposure to Cold

Hiccups often result from inadequate parental care leading to the infant’s exposure to cold. If the baby is otherwise healthy but suddenly develops loud, forceful, and persistent hiccups, cold exposure is likely the cause. In such cases, giving the baby warm water and ensuring warmth—particularly over the chest and abdomen—is recommended. During winter, placing a hot water bottle outside the baby’s clothing or blankets may help maintain warmth. Additionally, hiccups can occur when infants feed too rapidly, causing involuntary contractions of the diaphragm. This may also trigger vomiting, so caregivers should monitor for such signs.

2. Indigestion / Food Stagnation

If the baby’s hiccups are accompanied by a sour or foul odor, it suggests hiccups caused by undigested food. Parents may gently massage the baby’s chest and abdomen or offer a small amount of hawthorn tea, which helps promote gastrointestinal motility, relieve constipation, and support gastric health. When feeding, mothers should encourage slower feeding—ideally with the baby in a supine or slightly reclined position—to reduce hiccup frequency. Offering small amounts of warm water regularly may also help alleviate discomfort.

3. Diaphragmatic Disorders

Conditions such as diaphragmatic hernia, diaphragmatic eventration, or respiratory distress may cause hiccups. Though rare, diaphragmatic tumors are another potential cause. Therefore, parents should closely observe their baby’s overall condition. Moreover, hiccups in newborns may stem from congenital heart disease. Caregivers should avoid situations where the infant swallows too quickly. Other less common but serious causes include meningitis, epilepsy, intracranial hemorrhage, and congenital intracranial tumors. If hiccups persist, parents should promptly take the baby to a hospital for evaluation.

The above outlines the main causes of hiccups in newborns. We hope this information proves helpful.