what-to-do-if-newborn-has-hiccups
Hiccups are a common occurrence in newborn babies, and they are generally not a cause for concern. Hiccups occur when the diaphragm contracts involuntarily, causing a sudden intake of breath. This is a reflex action that helps to clear the airway and regulate breathing.
While hiccups are usually harmless, they can be distressing for both the baby and the parents. In this article, we will discuss what to do if your newborn has hiccups, how to prevent them, and when to seek medical attention.
- Comfort your baby
If your baby has hiccups, the first thing you should do is comfort them. Hiccups can be uncomfortable for babies, so it’s important to offer them reassurance and comfort. Hold your baby close and gently stroke their back or chest. You can also try patting their back or rubbing their tummy to help soothe them.
- Burp your baby
Hiccups can be caused by trapped air in the stomach, so it’s important to burp your baby after each feeding. Hold your baby upright against your shoulder and gently pat their back until they burp. This will help to release any trapped air and prevent hiccups.
- Feed your baby in an upright position
Feeding your baby in an upright position can help to prevent hiccups. This is because gravity helps to keep the milk or formula in the stomach, reducing the risk of air bubbles forming. Hold your baby upright during feeding and for at least 30 minutes afterwards.
- Offer smaller, more frequent feedings
Overfeeding can also cause hiccups in newborn babies. If your baby is prone to hiccups, try offering smaller, more frequent feedings. This will help to prevent their stomach from becoming too full, reducing the risk of hiccups.
- Use a pacifier
Using a pacifier can help to soothe your baby and reduce the frequency of hiccups. The sucking action can help to regulate breathing and calm your baby. However, it’s important not to rely on a pacifier too much, as this can cause nipple confusion and interfere with breastfeeding.
- Keep your baby calm and relaxed
Stress and excitement can trigger hiccups in babies, so it’s important to keep your baby calm and relaxed. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises, and create a peaceful environment for your baby to sleep and play in.
- Try gripe water
Gripe water is a natural remedy that can help to relieve hiccups in babies. It contains a combination of herbs and other ingredients that can help to soothe the stomach and reduce gas. However, it’s important to consult with your pediatrician before giving your baby gripe water, as some brands may contain harmful ingredients.
- Seek medical attention if necessary
In most cases, hiccups in newborn babies are harmless and will resolve on their own. However, if your baby’s hiccups persist for more than a few minutes or occur frequently throughout the day, it may be a sign of an underlying medical condition. If you are concerned about your baby’s hiccups, or if your baby is experiencing other symptoms such as vomiting or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
In conclusion, hiccups are a common occurrence in newborn babies and are usually not a cause for concern. Comforting your baby, burping them after feeding, feeding them in an upright position, offering smaller, more frequent feedings, using a pacifier, keeping them calm and relaxed, trying gripe water, and seeking medical attention if necessary are all strategies that can help to prevent and alleviate hiccups in newborns.
