Hiccups (Singultus): Therapy

General measures

Breathing maneuvers
- Stopping breathing
- Valsalva squeeze attempt (synonym: Valsalva maneuver): forced exhalation against the closed mouth and nasal opening while simultaneously using the abdominal squeeze [only under medical supervision!]Alternatively: blowing so hard into a 10 ml syringe that the plunger begins to move.
- Hyperventilation (increased breathing that goes beyond the need).
- Rebreathing into a bag
Drink ice water
Calming the phrenic nerve (phrenic nerve): cooling and massaging the upper abdomen.
Gastric emptying: induced vomiting [only under medical supervision!]
Vagus stimulation: pressure on eye bulb, carotid massage [only under medical supervision!]
Nicotine restriction (refrain from tobacco use).
Limited alcohol consumption (men: max. 25 g alcohol per day; women: max. 12 g alcohol per day); reflux symptoms are triggered in particular by acidic white wines and high-proof drinks, if necessary, also alcohol restriction (abstaining from alcohol).
Review of permanent medication due topossible effect on the existing disease.
Avoidance of psychosocial stress:
- Stress

Partial resection of the phrenic nerve (partial surgical removal of the phrenic nerve; ultima ratio therapy; if relief is not achieved despite conservative nonpharmacologic therapy).