Suggest Treatment For Diaphragm Abnormalities

Posted on Wed, 5 Oct 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 5 Oct 2016 Answered on

Wed, 26 Oct 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I have some paralysis of lower left diaphragm diagnosed years ago ( from guillane barre)... but otherwise no health issues with breathing eating,or exercising....have had recent hiccups..a few times a day one here, one there...could that be related? Sometimes when I stand up. Or is it more diet related (coffee, alcohol, etc)

Answered by Dr. Neeraj Kumar (14 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Take treatment as advised

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I have gone through your question and understand your concerns.
Gbs related diaphragm abnormalities is due to nerve paralysis and recovers mostly.
Hiccups are mostly due to irritation of diaphragm locally. Central causes are acute in onset and involves brainstem region.
Acidity may also lead to such problems in few patient.
You should first try proton pump inhibitors and antacids.
Later on muscle relaxant like baclofen or mosapride can be added.
Hope you found the answer helpful.
Do get back to me for further queries.
Regards
Dr N Kumar
Neurologist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Neeraj Kumar (1 hour later)

Thank you- so these infrequent hiccups (and belches) are fairly normal - no other symptoms presenting like acid reflux or indigestion, and likely unrelated to the lower diaphragm issue? Just try to treat as you said with antacids, etc...?

Answered by Dr. Neeraj Kumar (10 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Take treatment as advised

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Yes, you can try the medications as advised.
Avoid supine position just after taking meals.
Regards
Dr Neeraj Kumar
Neurologist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng