HOW TO ALLEVIATE HICCUPS IN BABIES

Hiccups are the sound generated by fast closing of the vocal cords as a result of the contraction of the diaphragm. They can also be traced to reflux: a condition in which the food contents of the stomach move into the esophagus. They are natural occurrences in babies, common in babies. It starts as early as their days in the wombs, around the second trimester. They are not abnormal, neither are they harmful.

The notion that hiccups affect baby's breathing is not correct. They don't interfere or have any effects on babies breathing. Often than not, hiccups stop on their own after the completion of their course.
Despite the fact that hiccups are not harmful in babies, it is not unheard of to see mothers being bothered by them, thus looking for ways to alleviate them as soon as they occur. Here are some helpful tips on how to alleviate hiccups in babies:

MASSAGE THE BABY'S BACK:place the baby on a soft surface on her tummy, preferably on a mattress.  Massage her lower back  way up to her shoulder regions in a circular motion, gently. This will help loosen up the tension around her diaphragm.  It is an effective way of relieving your adorable from bouts of hiccups.
ADMINISTER SOME SUGAR: There is an age-old believe that sugar has the ability to ease tension in the diaphragm. Depending on the age of your baby, you can give her some sugar to eat. If not ready for solid foods yet, sugar syrup is ideal. But caution must be taken as regard hygiene.  If you are using pacifier or your finger to give the syrup, wash thoroughly the pacifier/finger to avoid contamination.
KEEP THE BABY UPRIGHT AFTER FEEDING: It is a natural way of relaxing your baby's diaphragm after every feeding to alleviate hiccups. Avoid keeping your baby in a horizontal position immediately after feeding, this can trigger her muscles to flutter. Vertical positioning; by holding your baby upright should be maintained for at least 18 minutes after every feeding.
FEED YOUR BABY GRIPE WATER: Although, it has not been scientifically proven, Gripe water is a common herb used by mothers to address common gastronomic discomforts. It is usually diluted with drinkable water. Do not use on babies without a doctor's prescription.
LET NATURE TAKES IT'S FULL COURSE: Since hiccups is a natural event in babies and usually stops without interference from you. Allow nature take it's full course,  your baby will get out of it...yes! She will be fine.

However,  it is worthy of note that there are some times that hiccups may be sign of serious health condition in a baby.  If hiccups become intensive and frequent or takes longer than normal with no sign of fading away, please reach out to a paediatrician.


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