Hiccups occur due to spasms in the diaphragm muscle, which cause a sudden involuntary contraction followed by the quick closure of the vocal cords, producing the characteristic "hic" sound. The most common reasons for getting hiccups include:
- Eating or drinking too quickly or too much, which can cause stomach distension or bloating.
- Drinking carbonated beverages or alcohol.
- Sudden temperature changes in food or drinks.
- Emotional stress, excitement, or nervousness.
- Swallowing air, for example while chewing gum, smoking, or laughing.
- Irritation of the nerves controlling the diaphragm, such as the phrenic or vagus nerve.
- Sometimes certain medications or medical conditions affecting the nervous system, metabolism, or gastrointestinal tract.
If hiccups last longer than 48 hours or keep recurring frequently, they could indicate nerve irritation or an underlying health condition and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Everyday hiccups tend to be harmless and often stop on their own or after trying simple remedies like holding your breath, drinking water slowly, swallowing sugar, or other techniques that relax the diaphragm. In summary, getting hiccups frequently usually relates to diaphragm irritation from eating/drinking habits, emotional triggers, or nerve irritation, but persistent hiccups may require medical attention.
