Almost every one of us must have experienced hiccups in our lifetime.
A hiccup is a repeated involuntary contraction of the diaphragm (the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen) followed by a sudden closure of the vocal cords. This checks the inflow of air and produces the characteristic “snap” or “hic” sound.
Eating or drinking too quickly, having very hot or freezing foods, spicy food, alcohol and carbonated beverages are common causes of getting hiccups. Babies also may get hiccups after feeding, crying or coughing. However, many times a reason for hiccups cannot be identified.
Hiccups are usually harmless and settle by themselves in a few minutes. Breath-holding, drinking a glass of water or eating sugar are common ways to stop hiccups.
However, in some cases, prolonged hiccups that last for days or weeks may be suggestive of some underlying disorder. It is essential to identify the cause and treat it accordingly.
