Understanding Hiccups: Causes, Types, Remedies

You’re chatting with friends, mid-sentence, when—hic! It is fun at first, but soon you are ready for them to be over. Hiccups are a strange issue which most people do at some point in their lives but which we know little about. They come out of the blue, into the blue again, and are seen to put forth a lot of “cures” which some are more out there than others.

In other words, hiccups are the body’s spontaneous spasms of the diaphragm- the muscle which we use for breathing. Each spasm brings on the voice box to close instantly which in turn produces that famous hic sound.

So why do we get hiccup? Let’s dive into science.

Why do we get hiccups?

The problem lies deep on the issue of hiccups being a reflex that is itself located between the diaphragm and the nerves, especially the phrenic nerves and vagus nerves. On irritation of these nerves out of their physiological condition they emit signals that result in a spasm in the diaphragm. This in its turn gives rise to hiccup.

Common hiccup triggers include:

• Eating and drinking fast This which in turn may cause you to swallow too much air which irritates the diaphragm.

• Rapid changes in temperature like drinking iced water after a hot soup, for example.

• Alcohol and carbonated drinks have in common is gas bubbles which in turn trigger hiccup.

• Sometimes what causes them isn’t known for sure, which is part of the hiccups’ charm.

Types of hiccup episodes.

Not all hiccups are the same, I have put them into three main groups:

• Short term hiccup which is the most typical variety and which usually lasts for a few minutes to a few hours.

• Persistent hiccup, which at 48 hours have still not run their course and are a sign of another issue present.

• Intractable hiccups though very rare they may last over a month at which time they are usually a symptom of some serious underlying health issue.

When to worry: What to look out for:

If hiccup duration goes beyond two days, interferes with eating or sleep, or if there are other symptoms present like chest pain, shortness of which you should see a doctor.

Symptoms which also present risks of.

We have all had that experience of hiccup , a rhythmic gasp which runs through your chest or throat. When they persist however, hiccups can cause:.

• Fatigue from disrupted sleep

• Difficulty eating and drinking

• Weight loss (in extreme, prolonged cases)

Persistent hiccups may be a sign of an underlying issue which includes acid reflux, nerve damage, infections, or in some cases certain neurological disorders.

Effective cures for hiccups.

There are many home remedies passed down through grandmas that may or may work.

Popular home remedies: Home remedies which are popular:

• Holding your breath raises CO2 levels which in turn may cause diaphragm reset.

• Drinking cool water slowly Triggers the vagus nerve which in turn breaks the reflex.

• The sugar cur , putting granulated sugar in question may break the hiccup cycle.

• Bringing your knees to your chest which in turn changes the diaphragm position to stop spasms.

Scientific verdict:

While these home remedies may work for some, there isn’t a one size fits all solution.

Myth buster:

• Myth: Ringing out your nose and dashing in circles does away with hiccups.

• Fact: While fun at the time there is no science , you’re just dizzy and having hiccups.

Medical remedies for chronic hiccup.

Once hiccup attacks pass the 48 hour mark and are still going strong that is when you see the doctor.

Possible treatments include:

• Medications like Chlorpromazine, baclofen and metoclopramide may help in this condition.

• Treating root causes This includes GERD, infections, and metabolic issues which may be resolved.

• In very rare cases nerve blocks or other interventions may be used.

Important: Persistent hiccup is a sign which at large is not the primary issue instead the goal is to identify the root cause.

Preventing hiccups.

You may not be able to prevent all attacks of hiccup but you can reduce your chance of getting them.

Prevention tips:

• Eat slowly and chew food well.

• Avoid excessive alcohol or carbonated drinks.

• Reduce stress through breathing exercises or meditation.

If you have hiccups from a medical issue (like acid reflux) treatment of the issue may reduce the hiccups.

Summary and what’s to come out of it.

Hiccups which are a strange and universal and for the most part harmless reflex still have us puzzled.

Key points to remember:

• Hiccup are a result of diaphragm spasms.

• Most are short in duration, but chronic hiccup require medical care.

• Remedies go from basic breathing techniques to medical treatments.

• Prevention also includes steering clear of things like speed eating, alcohol, and stress.

What is your home remedy for hiccup? Please let us know, we may just find the best solution to that common problem!