Brazilian ex-president Bolsonaro’s treatment for persistent hiccups touches a nerve

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 1 min read 100% complete by AgenciesDecember 29, 2025 at 02:06 AM

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Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro underwent a phrenic nerve block procedure on Saturday to treat persistent hiccups, which his wife says he has suffered with for nine months. Doctors blocked the right phrenic nerve and scheduled a second procedure for the left nerve. Bolsonaro, currently serving a 27-year prison sentence for plotting a coup after his 2022 election loss, was temporarily released from jail for hernia surgery on Wednesday, during which time he received the hiccup treatment. He was authorized to leave prison for the surgery at the request of his lawyers. Bolsonaro has faced health issues since a 2018 stabbing during his presidential campaign, requiring multiple abdominal surgeries. Upon discharge, he will return to federal police jail.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Alexandre de Moraes 50% Michelle Bolsonaro ×280% Flavio Bolsonaro 80% Jair Bolsonaro ×5100% Brazil ×3100%

Keywords

jair bolsonaro 100% hiccups 90% phrenic nerve block 80% medical procedure 70% prison sentence 60% brazil 60% health problems 50% coup plot 50% hernia surgery 40%