Hiccoughs  Hiccups

Definition: Hiccoughs are a spasm of the diaphram causing
a jerking response.  It usually triggered by the phrenic
nerve.

Most of the time, the reason is unknown.  Though there is
a rare association of hiccoughs with inferior myocardial
infarction and a sub diaphragmatic abscess, which in turn
irriates the phrenic nerve.

Therapy:  For MI, complete heart attack therapy is indicated.
For subdiaphragmatic abscess, IV antibiotics are indicated.
As the above are the rare exception, the discussion will
concentrate on the more common unrelenting and unbearable
hiccoughs.

There are many home remedies, and many a bartender has
some very good results for this uncomfortable malady.

Thorazine (Chlorpromazine) 25-50 mg has been used with
success.  It can be given IM or PO.

Reglan, 10 mg IV, has been used with success.  Not sure
how the Reglan pill works.

One spoonful of dry sugar is a popular home rememdy.

Other modern remedies include: Haldol, Baclofen,
and Calcium Channel Blockers.

If there is any sign of a fever, history of heart disease,
or recent wound situation, it is important to bring this
information up to the physician so that the best decision
can be made.