1 min read
Hiccup
A hiccup is an involuntary muscular contraction that temporarily increases the volume of the chest. It is often caused by gas trapped in the stomach or intestines.
Causes:
- Swallowing air (aerophagia)
- Eating certain foods or drinks (e.g., carbonated beverages, spicy foods)
- Certain medical conditions (e.g., indigestion, gastroesophageal reflux disease, certain medications)
- Emotional stress
- Smoking
- Alcohol consumption
Symptoms:
- A sudden, involuntary contraction of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles
- A loud, sharp, or high-pitched sound
- Usually accompanied by a feeling of fullness or discomfort in the chest
Treatment:
- Holding your breath or doing a breath-holding exercise
- Coughing or sneezing
- Chewing gum or candy
- Walking or exercising
- Lying down on your left side
- Drinking water
- Using over-the-counter medications (e.g., antacids, probiotics)
Prevention:
- Avoiding certain foods and drinks
- Eating slowly and mindfully
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Reducing stress
- Quitting smoking
- Avoiding triggers that cause hiccups
Additional notes:
- Hiccups are usually not a cause for concern, but they can be bothersome for some people.
- If hiccups occur frequently or are accompanied by other symptoms, such as indigestion or abdominal pain, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
- Hiccups are often associated with pregnancy, eating certain foods, or drinking alcohol.
- Hiccups can also be caused by certain medical conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and diabetes.