Hiccups

Background

• Usually initiated by gastric distention from food, carbonated beverage, or air
• Also known as Singultus

Workup

• Auditory canal exam (foreign body against TM can trigger hiccups)
• CXR

Treatment

1. Physical Maneuvers (stimulating pharynx blocks the vagal portion of the reflex arc)
   1. Remove foreign body from ear
   2. Swallow teaspoon of sugar
   3. Sip ice water
   4. Drink water quickly
2. Meds
   1. Chlorpromazine 25–50mg IV; 25–50mg PO TID
   2. Metoclopramide 10mg IV or IM; 10–20mg PO TID x 10d

Source

Tintinalli