Treatment Plan & Key Information

Treatment Plan

Transient cases:

• Avoid triggers
• Self-help remedies: ice water, lemon/vinegar tasting, Valsalva manoeuvre, breath holding, pulling knees to chest

Persistent cases:

• Like transient with the conservative methods
• Treat underlying causes if identified
• Alternative therapies: hypnotherapy, psychotherapy, acupuncture Medications:
  • First line: Chlorpromazine
    o GORD associated: peppermint, PPIs, antacids
    o Prokinetic associated: domperidone, metoclopramide
  • Others: dexamethasone 4-8mg morning, loprazolam, nifedipine, baclofen Phrenic Nerve disruption techniques

Key Information

• Differentiate between transient (<48hrs) and persistent (>48hrs) hiccups
• Persistent cases require full assessment and investigation
• Multiple treatment options are available depending on the underlying cause

Hiccups Reference