Short-term, everyday hiccups are typically not a cause for concern and rarely lead to complications.
However, they can still be bothersome.
Fortunately, several home remedies, medications, massage techniques, and prevention methods can bring relief.
PixelsEffect / Getty Images
PixelsEffect / Getty Images
Why Do We Get Hiccups?
Hiccups result from automatic movements of the diaphragm, a breathing muscle at the base of the lungs.
Experts arent sure exactly why this occurs, but some common triggers are outlined below.
Medications That Can Cause Hiccups
Certain types of medications also have the potential to trigger persistent hiccups.
This may happen because swallowing air while eating or drinking leads tobloating, which triggers hiccups.
Hiccuping after eating is particularly common innewborn babies.
Emotional Hiccups
In some cases, emotions can trigger a bout of hiccups.
Getting overexcited might cause you to inadvertently swallow excess air, activating these nerves and prompting hiccups.
Most cases of hiccupsare short-lived, though they do have the potential to be chronic (or long-lasting).
Acute or mild hiccups usually go away within a few minutes.
This bang out of hiccup lasts no more than 48 hours.
Chronic (or intractable) hiccups last more than 48 hours and may persist if not treated or managed.
For example:
For chronic hiccups, you may help prevent them by managing any underlying health conditions.
Other treatment options for chronic hiccups include medications and surgical procedures.
Hiccups may be prevented by avoiding triggers like large meals, spicy foods, carbonated beverages, and alcohol.
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