Hiccups

Hiccups are normal every now and then, and they are often no more than a short-period and simple annoying symptom that resolves on its own.

Hiccups

Hiccups occur due to a spasm in the diaphragm, which is a thin muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdomen and has an essential role in breathing.

A hiccup occurs when the diaphragm pulls down suddenly between breaths and the glottis suddenly closes and stops the air from coming in; this leads to the sound of the hiccup.

Normally, a hiccup lasts only a few seconds to a few minutes, but in some cases it can last for months, and this indicates an underlying condition.

Causes of hiccups

In general, hiccups occur as a result of something that irritates the nerves, which causes the diaphragm to contract.

Causes of transient hiccups:

• Eating rapidly or eating a lot.
• Carbonated beverages.
• Excessive alcohol consumption.
• A sudden temperature change.
• Being excited or under emotional stress.
• Air swallowing.

Causes of persistent hiccups:

• Metabolic issues, such as diabetes, electrolyte imbalance, and kidney disease.
• Gastrointestinal issues, such as GERD and gastritis.
• Lung issues, such as pneumonia and pulmonary embolism.
• Neurological issues, such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, encephalitis, meningitis, and tumors.
• Some infections, such as the flu, herpes simplex, and shingles.
• Certain medications, such as azithromycin, dexamethasone, low doses of benzodiazepines, dopamine agonists, sedatives, and some chemotherapy drugs.

Diagnosis of hiccups

When the hiccup lasts for a long time, certain diagnostic tests are performed to find out the underlying cause, and they include:

• Physical exam.
• Blood tests.
• Imaging tests.

Treatment of hiccups

• Transient hiccups usually wear off on their own.
• Persistent hiccups are treated depending on the cause.
• Certain steps can help manage transient hiccups, such as holding the breath, drinking cold water, pulling on the tongue, and breathing into a paper bag.