Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro recently underwent a medical procedure to address his chronic hiccups. His doctors reported that the treatment was successful and lasted about an hour. They clarified that this was not classified as surgery.
At 70 years old, Bolsonaro is currently serving a 27-year sentence for plotting a coup after losing the 2022 presidential election to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. This latest procedure followed a recent successful surgery for a double hernia.
Before the hiccup treatment, Bolsonaro endorsed his son Flávio for Brazil’s 2026 presidential election through a handwritten letter, which Flávio read outside the hospital. Michelle Bolsonaro, his wife, shared on social media that her husband has been struggling with hiccups for nine months, describing it as “a struggle and anguish.” The procedure involved “blocking” one of his phrenic nerves, which play a crucial role in controlling the diaphragm. Hiccups occur when this nerve is irritated, causing involuntary spasms.
Doctors confirmed that they treated the right phrenic nerve and plan to address the left one soon. After his recovery, Bolsonaro will return to a cell at the federal police headquarters to continue serving his sentence.
In a broader context, Bolsonaro’s legal troubles have sparked discussions about political accountability in Brazil. His case is part of a larger trend where leaders face consequences for actions taken while in office. In fact, a recent survey indicated that 65% of Brazilians support strict measures against politicians involved in corruption.
On the same day as Bolsonaro’s procedure, Brazil’s Supreme Court placed 10 officials under house arrest for their roles in the coup attempt. These individuals had previously served in Bolsonaro’s government, highlighting a widespread concern about political instability and the rule of law in the country.
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