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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

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Exp 50 years

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What Causes Hiccups And Cough With Phlegm After Eating In An Elderly Person?

a female over 65 years of age eating at a restaurant suddenly got hiccups, then couldn t swallow and began coughing up copious amounts of clear, thick, phlegm. She felt like her throat was closing. She had this once before about five years ago while eating at a different restaurant. Could this have been an allergic reaction?n
posted on Wed, 17 Aug 2016
Twitter Thu, 11 Jul 2019 Answered on
Twitter Fri, 12 Jul 2019 Last reviewed on
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General Surgeon,  's  Response
Hello,

Hiccups are usually benign and it passes spontaneously. If this is lasting for more than 48 hrs and leading to the cessation of breath should be investigated.

Hope you do not have any sore throat, reflux esophagitis or ear infection. Get a blood test to rule out anyelectrolyte imbalance and to see that kidneys are alright.

Get a chest x-ray to rule out anything irritating the nerves supplying the diaphragm. An MRI of the brain may also be required sometimes.

Chlorpromazine, metochlorpropamide and baclofen are useful in controlling the hiccups. Consult your physician for the prescription. Also, you can also try vinegar- a teaspoon or granulated sugar- a teaspoon.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Ivan R. Rommstein, General Surgeon
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What Causes Hiccups And Cough With Phlegm After Eating In An Elderly Person?

Hello, Hiccups are usually benign and it passes spontaneously. If this is lasting for more than 48 hrs and leading to the cessation of breath should be investigated. Hope you do not have any sore throat, reflux esophagitis or ear infection. Get a blood test to rule out anyelectrolyte imbalance and to see that kidneys are alright. Get a chest x-ray to rule out anything irritating the nerves supplying the diaphragm. An MRI of the brain may also be required sometimes. Chlorpromazine, metochlorpropamide and baclofen are useful in controlling the hiccups. Consult your physician for the prescription. Also, you can also try vinegar- a teaspoon or granulated sugar- a teaspoon. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Take care Regards, Dr Ivan R. Rommstein, General Surgeon