“Hiccups can be a typical part of development in babies. Burping them or providing a pacifier may help. But if they have certain other symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, it may be cause for concern.”
9 Effective Ways to Relax Your Baby’s Hiccups
Imagine this: It’s a calm evening, and you’ve just swayed your little one into a peaceful slumber. Their eyelashes flutter with dreams, and their tiny fists uncurl. But suddenly, a hiccup! And another! With every ‘hic’, you see their nose twitch, almost as if they’re sending out a baby Morse code. It’s adorable, yet disconcerting. Especially when you’re trying to get some much-needed rest or simply aiming for a peaceful evening. So, what’s a parent to do? Let’s demystify the world of baby hiccups, uncovering those ever-elusive tips on how to stop hiccups for your tiny dreamer.
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Did you ever question ‘How to stop baby hiccups?’. Well, here are 9 beneficial ways to stop baby hiccups.
- The Whys and Hows of Newborn Baby Hiccups
- A Gentle Burp Does the Trick
- The Mysteries of Gripe Water
- The Pacifier’s Emergence as a Hiccup Halter
- Distraction: The Timeless Art of Deflection
- A Sugar Rush
- Temperature Tactics: The Subtle Art of Thermal Reset
- Harnessing Gravity: An Upright Revolution
- The Power of Breathing: Calm and Compose
Before we delve into how to stop newborn hiccups, let’s address the enigma: why do they happen? Hiccups occur when the diaphragm — that muscular wall separating your baby’s chest from their stomach — spasms. Further, spasms are the key reason for hiccups in babies. And when this muscle twitches unexpectedly, air gets pulled into the lungs, only to be stopped by a sudden closure of the vocal cords. Hence, the characteristic “hic” sound.
But why newborns? Well, think of it as a testament to their journey of growth and adaptation. Their internal systems are still learning the ropes of life outside the womb, so a bit of hiccupy burstiness is all part of the process of settling in.
A gentle burping technique is a classic and time-honoured baby hiccups remedy. Since hiccups might be due to air trapped in their little bellies, gently burping them can alleviate this hiccup-triggering pressure. This isn’t just a how-to, it’s an art. Hold your baby against your chest, their chin resting on your shoulder, and gently pat or rub their back. This age-old remedy aids in releasing trapped air, potentially putting a stop to those hiccups.
Gripe water, a solution often containing ginger and fennel, is like the elixir of baby hiccups home remedies. Many parents swear by its almost magical properties, not just for hiccups, but also for other digestive discomforts. However, always ensure you’re using a brand recommended for your baby’s age and consult with a paediatrician before introducing anything new.
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The humble pacifier, commonly associated with soothing fussy babies, has recently been lauded for its unexpected role in the world of hiccups. Here’s the fascinating science behind it: the sucking reflex can serve as a mediator, easing tension in the diaphragm. As your baby comfortably latches onto the pacifier, this soothing action works its magic, relaxing the diaphragm and potentially dissipating those bothersome hiccups. If the rhythmic dance of hiccups is keeping your baby restless, reaching for that pacifier might just offer the serenity you both crave.
Distraction isn’t just the oldest trick in the book; it’s a testament to the adaptability of human attention. When hiccups strike, the very act of diverting your baby’s focus can sometimes reset their rhythmic spasms. From introducing a vibrant toy to making them giggle with a playful peek-a-boo, these actions play on their innate curiosity. The sudden shift of focus might be all it takes for the diaphragm to find its calm, putting an end to the hiccup symphony.
A tad bit controversial, and certainly perplexing, some believe that a taste of something sweet can halt hiccups in their tracks. A little sugar on the baby’s tongue can cause a reflex that could stop the diaphragm from spasming. But remember, sugar for infants, especially under the age of 6 months, can be risky. Always consult your paediatrician before trying this method.
While this strategy might sound like a splash from the left field, there’s an intriguing method to this seeming madness. By gently introducing a change in temperature, we’re tapping into the body’s inherent reflexes. A mild (emphasising on mild) alteration, like a lukewarm washcloth against your baby’s cheek, can serve as a gentle stimuli, prompting their body to shift its focus and potentially curb the hiccups. Remember, the aim isn’t to shock, but to softly redirect the body’s attention.
Another one from the how to stop newborn hiccups diary involves utilising gravity. Gravity, the very force that anchors us, might just be your secret weapon against newborn hiccups. While it sounds like a concept borrowed from a science textbook, its application is profoundly simple. When you feed your baby in an upright posture, gravity aids in guiding the milk or formula seamlessly down, minimising the air intake. This strategic position not only ensures a smoother flow but can also significantly cut down the chances of a hiccup post-feeding. Sometimes, the solutions lie in the very forces that surround us!
In the great expanse of home remedies to stop hiccups, a gentle yet often overlooked strategy is the power of slow, rhythmic breathing. Holding your baby close and engaging in calm inhales and exhales can potentially soothe their startled diaphragm. The close contact and synchronised heartbeat might just be the balm your baby’s jumpy diaphragm needs. Remember, it’s about establishing harmony, syncing with your baby’s rhythm, and making them feel secure.
For you: Enrol your child in India’s leading preschool network.
Conclusion
Picture it – a room filled with laughter, the golden hour sunlight streaming in, and in the midst of it all, your baby hiccuping in cadence with their favourite lullaby. Such moments, while perplexingly endearing, sometimes need a gentle intervention for comfort. With the strategies discussed in this article, we hope to have answered your question on ‘What causes hiccups in babies?’ and ‘how to control hiccups in babies?’. Now, you can not only ensure peaceful nights but also days filled with fewer ‘hics’ and more giggles.
And speaking of giggles and growth, if you’re seeking a nurturing environment for your toddler, where they learn, play, and develop essential skills, look no further than Eurokids. We understand kids, right down to their little hiccups! To learn more about our specially crafted curriculum, visit the Eurokids centre nearest to your house today!
Remember, the journey of parenthood is dotted with such sweet mysteries. So, equip yourself, reach out for support, and let’s turn those hiccups into heartwarming memories!
References
https://www.healthline.com/health/childrens-health/newborn-hiccups
https://www.verywellfamily.com/how-to-get-rid-of-infant-hiccups-4160825
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/heres-what-to-do-when-your-baby-has-the-hiccups
For informative and accurate articles on all things related to your new born-toddler’s development, growth, health and nutrition, follow EuroKids Blogs and do check out our nationally recognized preschools – EuroKids for the first step in your kid’s educational journey!
About Us
EuroKids is recognized as India’s most respected early childhood education brand, with over 21 years of experience, and has a presence in 350+ cities & 3 countries. The journey began in 2001 with 2 preschools and since then the group has consistently raised the bar for preschool education through its innovative and mindful curriculum – EUNOIA, which helps children grow holistically in a home-like environment.
