Hiccups are common in babies, especially during the first year of life. DrHull.com points out that no one really knows why a baby has hiccups frequently but there are several proposed causes. Treating the hiccups isn't necessary, as they will go away on their own. Persistent hiccups should be reported to a pediatrician. In rare cases, violent or long-lasting hiccups can be a sign of an underlying medical problem.
Reflex
DrHull.com proposes that one cause of hiccups is a reflex stimulation of the vagus nerve to the diaphragm. Meaning, the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen is involuntarily contracted and the vocal cords suddenly close. This produces the "hic" sound, explains MayoClinic.com. This occurs more frequently in newborns due to the immaturity of the neurological system responsible for controlling this reflex.
Eating
BabyCenter.com reports that eating is a common cause of hiccups in babies. The diaphragm muscle can be irritated or stimulated by the food, causing it to reflexively contract. Nearly any food can cause the hiccups. Some foods that a breastfeeding mother eats can increase the likelihood of hiccups in the baby. Examples include spicy foods or caffeinated beverages. As a baby is introduced to solid foods, sensitivity or intolerance can cause the hiccups as well.
Temperature Change
MayoClinic.com points out that a sudden drop in temperature can cause an individual to get hiccups. In infants, the temperature drop is more noticeable. BabyCenter.com suggests being cold suddenly can cause an infant to hiccup.
Reflux
Spitting up is a part of a baby's life for at least the first six months. The return of fluids up the esophagus can upset the diaphragm, resulting in hiccups. A similar condition, gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a more persistent form of acid reflux. GERD occurs in infants because their digestive systems are immature and they spend most of their time lying down. KidsHealth.org suggests that wet burps and hiccups are common signs of GERD in infants.
