What causes Hiccups? Know the Science Behind It

Almost everyone has experienced hiccups once or more than once in their lifetime and might have different ways to get rid of them. But have you ever wondered what causes hiccups and what actually can stop them. Let us explore the science behind hiccups in the lines below.

What Causes Hiccups?

A hiccup is an involuntary reflex action that occurs in your diaphragm, the muscle that is situated under your lungs that controls breathing. Hiccups make the diaphragm to contract involuntarily, it almost occurs suddenly, the resulting spasm pulls in a quick breath, thereby snap shutting your vocal cords a split second later and producing that characteristic hic sound.

Now ordinarily, short term hiccups are usually triggered by the following reasons:

1. Eating food too quickly or overeating.

2. Drinking carbonated beverages or alcohol.

3. Sudden changes in the temperature, such as hot drink followed by cold air.

4. Swallowing large amount of air while chewing gum, food or talking while eating.

5. Stress, sudden excitement or emotional shifts.

When Hiccups Point to  Something More Serious

Hiccups are very common if they last for a short period of time, but if they last for more than 48 hours, then it signifies underlying health conditions that can be related to acid reflux, gastritis, peptic ulcers, nervous system conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, or stroke.

There can be other reasons also which can be respiratory or due to the effect of certain medications.

How Can You Stop the Hiccups?

The best way to stop hiccups is to do one of the two things namely, raising carbon dioxide levels in the body to relax the diaphragm or stimulating the vagus nerve which runs just near the diaphragm.

Why do I keep getting hiccups after eating?

When we eat fast or more than usual, or we swallow air while eating, all of these can irritate the diaphragm and trigger hiccups. It is recommended to slowly eat your food and reduce the portions to avoid hiccups.

Can stress cause hiccups?

Sudden stress, excitement or fast breathing can trigger the diaphragm which can cause it to spasm causing hiccups.

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