-IBIS-1.5.0-
tx
digestive system
hiccough
diagnoses

definition and etiology

definition:
an involuntary spasmodic contraction of the diaphragm, leading to an abbreviated inspiration from sudden closing of the glottis; a characteristic sound also occurs

etiology:
depends upon nature and dose of irritant, duration of its action, resistance of the patient, extent of gastrointestinal involvement; among the etiologic agents are indigestion, diaphragm irritation, alcoholism, pleural growths, cerebral lesions, hysteria

signs and symptoms

signs and symptoms:
the typical sound, but watch for other symptoms which may reflect an underlying condition

course and prognosis

Hiccoughs are usually self-limiting, and many old wives' tales suggest cures.

(One of the serious causes is cardiac tamponade, from pressure on the recurrent laryngeal nerve, but this is rare, and hiccoughs would not be the presenting complaint).

differential diagnosis

• none


footnotes