Simple Scientific Explanation for Hiccups

Hiccups are a common medical occurrence.

Hiccups are something that everyone will experience at some point in their lives. When growing up, you may have heard a number of different explanations, some serious and some that sounded funny. Persistent hiccups can be embarrassing and a big inconvenience, however, there is a simple scientific explanation to why we get hiccups and how we can get rid of them.

What Are Hiccups?

Hiccups are a common occurrence and the majority of the time they are inconvenient yet harmless. However, persistent hiccups can be a problem. If they last longer than a period of three hours, or begin to interrupt your sleeping or eating patterns, you should see a doctor. Persistent hiccups can cause abdominal pain and result in coughing up blood; if these symptoms occur, it is important to seek medical attention.

The Diaphragm

Hiccups are caused by the diaphragm. The diaphragm is a dome-shaped muscle at the bottom of your chest. When you inhale, the diaphragm pulls downwards to allow your lungs to fill with air. When you exhale, it pushes upwards and forces the air back out of your lungs. However, hiccups occur when the diaphragm becomes irritated. The irritation causes it to pull down in a sharp way, which forces you to suck air into your throat suddenly. When the air rushing in hits your voice box it causes a hiccup.

Causes

There are many ways to cause hiccups. Eating too fast or drinking gassy drinks can make you swallow air along with your food or drink and result in hiccups. Another cause is eating too much. Eating large amounts of fatty foods makes your stomach stretch and irritates your diaphragm, causing you to hiccup.

Home Cures

There are many different methods of curing hiccups at home. These home cures are often spread by word of mouth and include some unusual suggestions. Some of the most common include holding your breath, becoming frightened, drinking from the wrong side of a glass and receiving a fright.

Medical Cures

Although hiccups usually go away after a short time, there are medical treatments for persistent hiccups. Drugs can be prescribed to help deal with hiccups and chlorpromazine (Thorazine) is the most common prescription. For severe hiccups, surgery can be performed to disable the phrenic nerve that controls the diaphragm, however, this is always a last resort.

References

• EMedicine Health: Hiccups
• Kids Health: What Causes Hiccups?