-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