Hiccups in Babies

Hiccups in babies is a common problem that troubles new moms. In fact, hiccups in babies are prevalent right from the time the baby is in the womb. During pregnancy, women often get alarmed when they experience their baby hiccuping in the womb, but there is no reason to worry about hiccups in babies, either inside or outside the womb.

What Causes Hiccups in Babies?
There is a muscle called the diaphragm at the bottom of the chest. When there is stimulation of this muscle, it contracts, thus, causing hiccups. Even new born babies have hiccups. But, what everyone keeps wondering about is what causes hiccups in babies? Here are a few reasons for hiccups in babies:

Feeding: You must have observed that babies get more hiccups after they have been fed. Hiccups in babies after feeding is the most common problem. This is because babies tend to swallow a lot of air along with milk when they are being fed. This excessive air makes the diaphragm contract, which results in hiccups.

Temperature: Sudden drop in temperature can also cause hiccups in babies. If the temperature drastically drops, the baby's body tends to get cold, which causes hiccups. So, it is always advisable to keep babies warm.

GERD: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), also called acid reflux disease, is another cause of hiccups in babies. Acid reflux disease (GERD) occurs when the acid in the baby's stomach is regurgitated into the esophagus. This is one of the most common reasons for hiccups in toddlers. Although acid reflux in babies is commonly seen, if it persists, parents should consult the doctor immediately.

How to Stop Hiccups in Babies?
As seen above, the reasons for hiccups in infants are not very grave. So you don't need to worry too much about them. There are some ways to get rid of hiccups in babies.

Patting the Back: The most simple way to cure hiccups in babies is to pat it on its back. Hold the baby against your shoulder and pat firmly, but gently on its back. This will make the baby burp, which will release the extra air and stop the hiccups.

Gripe Water: Gripe water is said to be an effective cure for hiccups in babies. In case of infants, 2.5ml of gripe water is sufficient to ward off hiccups.

Sugar: If the baby is old enough, and has been taking solids, put a little sugar on its tongue. The logic behind this is, the sweetness of the sugar will distract the nerves, thus, preventing the diaphragm from contracting, and eventually stopping the hiccups in newborns.

Check the Feeding Bottle: Sometimes, when the baby is bottle fed, the tip of the nipple has a bigger hole than required. This causes extra air to enter into the baby's body while feeding. To check if the hole of the nipple is right, try turning the bottle upside down and see to it that the milk falls in a drip, and not in a flow.

Anise Seeds: Anise seeds are also said to work effectively as a home remedy for hiccups in babies. Put one cup of hot water over a tablespoon of anise seeds. Once the mixture cools, give the baby a tablespoon of it.

These were the causes and ways to get rid of hiccups in babies. Do not stop feeding the baby if it has hiccups. Hiccups are temporary, and they generally stop automatically after a few minutes. They are a bit annoying, but not a serious issue. So, don't freak out if you hear 'hic hic' from your baby!