A brief episode of hiccups is familiar to everyone. Persistent hiccups are not. When the spasms don’t settle down, they can point toward irritation of the diaphragm or another medical concern that needs to be checked.
Getwell Urgent Care in Southaven offers prompt evaluation for these symptoms so you can get clarity on what’s causing them and what treatment might help.
What counts as persistent hiccups?
Hiccups happen when the diaphragm contracts involuntarily, forcing air upward and causing the vocal cords to close. Most episodes last only a few minutes. When hiccups last over 48 hours, or come back repeatedly throughout the day, they are considered persistent.
This longer duration can interfere with sleep, eating and your concentration, according to Ohio State University. Persistent hiccups can also cause discomfort in the chest or throat, especially if they continue for several days.
At Getwell Urgent Care, we see cases in which hiccups last far longer than expected. In these visits, our goal is to determine whether something is irritating the diaphragm, the nerves that control it or other nearby structures.
What causes long-lasting or chronic hiccups?
There is no single explanation for hiccups that won’t stop. Instead, several issues can affect the diaphragm or the nerves that signal it to contract.
Common causes of chronic hiccups, according to the Mayo Clinic, include:
- Irritation of the stomach or esophagus, often from reflux or indigestion
- Drinking carbonated beverages or eating too quickly
- Recent illnesses involving the lungs or throat
- Certain medications, including some used for acid reflux or anxiety
Although many of these causes are minor, they can be related to more significant conditions. Chronic hiccups can occasionally point toward electrolyte imbalances, metabolic issues or irritation of the vagus or phrenic nerves. This is why an evaluation is often helpful when symptoms last longer than expected.
When should you see a doctor for hiccups?
You don’t need to rush in for every brief episode. However, some situations make a medical visit the safer choice.
Visit Getwell Urgent Care if your hiccups:
- Last over 48 hours
- Interrupt sleep or eating
- Cause chest discomfort, nausea or difficulty swallowing
- Developed after a recent respiratory illness
- Keep returning throughout the day
These symptoms suggest that something is affecting normal diaphragm function. During your visit, we’ll take a focused history to understand when the hiccups started, what triggers them, how long they last and whether other symptoms occur at the same time.
How urgent care evaluates persistent hiccups
Understanding the pattern of your hiccups is an important first step. We’ll ask about diet changes, recent illnesses, new medications or stress levels, all of which can influence diaphragm activity.
Your evaluation may include:
- A physical exam to check for abdominal or respiratory irritation
- Basic testing if we suspect dehydration, infection or an electrolyte imbalance
- A review of medications that could contribute to the problem
These steps help identify whether the hiccups stem from a temporary irritation or something that requires treatment. If we find signs of an underlying infection, reflux or inflammation, we might recommend medications to relieve it.
What treatments are available for persistent hiccups?
Treatment depends on what’s causing the hiccups. For many people, addressing stomach irritation or reflux brings relief. Others may benefit from medications that calm the diaphragm or reduce nerve irritation.
Potential treatment approaches include:
- Adjusting eating habits, including smaller meals or avoiding carbonated drinks
- Treating reflux or indigestion when those symptoms are present
- Short-term medication to interrupt the hiccup cycle
- Hydration strategies when symptoms appear after illness
If a patient’s hiccups relate to respiratory issues or infections, a doctor might recommend additional tests. If your symptoms point toward a condition that needs specialized care, we’ll also guide you on what to do next.
Fast evaluation of persistent hiccups at Getwell Urgent Care
If hiccups are keeping you up at night or lasting longer than 48 hours, getting evaluated can bring clarity and relief. At Getwell Urgent Care, we’ll review your symptoms, take a focused history and determine whether you need persistent hiccups treatment or testing.
We’re open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. at our clinic on Getwell Road, with walk-in visits and short wait times. If persistent hiccups are disrupting your routine or you’re unsure what to do next, our team is here to provide prompt, practical care close to home. We’re ready when you are, so walk in today to have your hiccups seen.