Positive Health Online

Abstract

LIU and co-authors, Department of Cardiology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China, have found that acupuncture rapidly terminates intractable hiccups after acute myocardial infarction.

Background

Acupuncture is a well-known alternative therapy in practice worldwide. Its dramatic effect on hiccups has rarely been reported.

Methodology

Single case study.

Results

A 77 year old man had intractable hiccups after acute myocardial infarction. Despite aggressive treatment including breath-holding to interrupt the respiratory rhythm, continuous positive airway pressure, and medication with metoclopramine, prochlorperazine, chlorpromazine, haloperidol, mephenesin, diphenylhydantoin, baclofen, and phenobarbital, the hiccups persisted for 7 days. Thy were then rapidly terminated by acupuncture at point GV14 (Da zhui).

Conclusion

Acupuncture can be considered for the treatment of hiccups refractory to other therapies.

References

Liu FC, Chen CA, Yang SS, Lin SH. Acupuncture therapy rapidly terminates intractable hiccups complicating acute myocardial infarction. Southern Medical Journal 98 (3): 385-387, Mar 2005.