Brazil’s Bolsonaro Undergoes Medical Treatment for Hiccups
Brazil’s former president Jair Bolsonaro has recently undergone a medical procedure designed to treat his persistent hiccups, according to reports from his medical team.
– The hiccup treatment, noted as non-surgical, went well, as confirmed by one of his doctors.
– Dr. Claudio Birolini added that the procedure lasted approximately one hour.
This latest health intervention follows a recent surgery for a double hernia, which Bolsonaro underwent earlier this week after being authorized for hospital transfer.
Health Updates and Legal Troubles
– Bolsonaro, 70, is currently serving a 27-year sentence for attempting to orchestrate a coup following his defeat in the 2022 presidential election to left-wing opponent Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
– Prior to his hernia surgery, Bolsonaro endorsed his son Flávio for the 2026 presidential race against Lula, communicating this through a handwritten letter read by Flávio outside the hospital.
Borsonaro’s struggle with chronic hiccups has been ongoing for nine months. His wife, Michelle, shared on social media that the procedure involved blocking one of his phrenic nerves. The phrenic nerves play a crucial role in controlling the diaphragm’s movement, which is essential for breathing. Involuntary spasms of the diaphragm, often triggered by an irritated nerve, lead to hiccups.
– Doctors confirmed they treated the right phrenic nerve during the procedure and plan to address the left nerve in an upcoming session.
After his medical treatment, the former president is expected to return to his cell at the federal police headquarters, where he continues to serve his sentence.
Legal Developments
Bolsonaro has faced significant legal challenges, having been found guilty of coup plotting in September. Initially placed under house arrest while appealing his conviction, he was moved to police custody last month after authorities determined he posed a concrete flight risk. Reports indicated he attempted to tamper with his ankle monitor and considered using a rally outside his residence as a cover for an escape plan. Bolsonaro has maintained that he has no intention of fleeing.
In conjunction with Bolsonaro’s ongoing legal issues, Brazil’s Supreme Court has ordered the house arrest of ten officials connected to his coup attempt, all of whom previously served in his administration.
As Jair Bolsonaro navigates his medical treatment for hiccups and continues to confront his legal troubles, the next steps in his health and political future remain closely monitored by the public and the media.