Why and what causes people to hiccup?

Question

Why do people hiccup....and how can you get rid of them?

Answer 1

A hiccup is due to unintentional contraction of the diaphragm. When this happens the vocal cords close very briefly producing the sound. A similar process occurs when somebody sobs..

Some of the causes are spicy food, heavy meal, carbonated beverages, swallowing air, sudden temperature changes, hot and  cold liquids taken in succession, a shower taken with hot and cold water alternating, tobacco,excitement and emotional stress. There can be other causes.

If a hiccup continues for more than 48 hours you should contact a doctor.

Usually the commonly occurring hiccups pass off after a short time.

Prolonged hiccups can be due to some diseases .

Useful home remedies are

1. Swallow a tea spoon of sugar

2. Breath temporarily into a bag ( a paper bag )    for about a minute

3. Drink a glass of water

5. Hold the breath and count up to 10 slowly

6. Get someone to startle you

Hiccups that cannot be controlled should be treated by a doctor.

I am a medical doctor.