Hiccups in neurocritical care

Abstract

Hiccup or hiccough is known by the medical term "singultus," which is a derivative of the Latin word "singult, " meaning "a gasp" or "a sob" [1]. Hiccups are characterized by involuntary, intermittent, repetitive, myoclonic, and spasmodic contractions of the diaphragm and the inspiratory intercostal muscles, leading to an abrupt and early closure of the glottis, terminating inspiration and generating the characteristic "hic" sound [2,3]. Both healthy adults and children commonly experience hiccup spells. In the fetus, hiccups play a physiological role by training the respiratory muscles for their breathing function, and as a reflex preventing amniotic fluid aspiration [4,5]. Transient episodes usually do not

In Response to Author: Hiccups before a Pulmonary Embolism Speak against This as a Cause

“…The lateral medullary syndrome is frequently associated with central hiccups however, brainstem strokes often result in intractable hiccups lasting over months. 1 – 3 In our case, hiccups persisted for only 6–7 days and disappeared 4–5 days after initiating anticoagulant therapy for PE. The author also suggested the possibility of drug-induced chronic hiccups due to glucocorticoid usage as part of antiedema therapy.…”

The development and implementation of a low-cost mechanical ventilator in a low-middle-income country during the COVID-19 pandemic: The Unisabana-HERONS

“…Nonetheless, one patient had a singular episode. This could be attributable to Vagus nerve irritation secondary to pharyngeal and glottic stimulation during orotracheal intubation [ 24 ]. Another patient presented a pattern of hydrostatic pulmonary edema in the chest x-ray, associated with a positive fluid balance of 1586 cc and urinary output of 0.38 cc/kg/hour.…”

Hiccups: An Atypical Manifestation of Miliary Tuberculosis and Myocardial Ischemia

“…Hiccups are usually considered benign as they are self-limited with spontaneous resolution. However, if persistent for more than 48 hours, it can be the result of more threatening etiologies [ 9 ], which include meningitis, encephalitis, stroke, and central nervous system tumors that affect the central component. Afferent and efferent components can be stimulated to cause hiccups in the presence of mediastinal tumors, gastroesophageal reflux disease, esophageal tumors, or induced by drugs like steroids, anti-parkinsonian drugs, and antipsychotic medications.…”