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Hiccups (cont.)

When to Seek Medical Care

You should see a doctor if the hiccups become chronic and persistent (if they last more than 3 hours), or if they affect your sleeping patterns or interfere with eating.

A case of the hiccups is rarely a medical emergency. If your hiccups last for more than 3 hours, occur with severe abdominal pain, or you spit up blood, however, you should seek medical attention.



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Hiccups »

The term "hiccup" derives from the sound of the event. "Hiccough" erroneously implies an association with respiratory reflexes.

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