Hiccups are involuntary spasms of the diaphragm muscle paired with a "hic" sound from the vocal cords closing. The cause of hiccups is often unknown, but there are several reasons why hiccups might happen, including low levels of carbon dioxide in the blood, irritated nerves, and pressure on the diaphragm. Some common triggers for hiccups that last less than 48 hours include drinking carbonated beverages, drinking too much alcohol, eating too much, being excited or under emotional stress, experiencing sudden temperature changes, and swallowing air, such as when chewing gum or smoking. Issues that may cause hiccups to last more than 48 hours include nerve damage or irritation, central nervous system disorders, metabolic issues, and certain drug and alcohol problems.
Factors that may damage or irritate the nerves that supply the diaphragm muscle include inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord, multiple sclerosis, stroke, serious brain injury, tumors, and metabolic issues such as diabetes and electrolyte imbalance. Hiccups can also happen after surgery and during the recovery process from a procedure.
Hiccups are usually temporary and go away on their own after a few minutes. However, if hiccups last for more than 48 hours or are severe enough to interfere with eating, breathing, sleeping, or are causing distress, it is recommended to make an appointment with a doctor. If hiccups last for a long period of time, it may be symptomatic of underlying disease, and certain lung or brain disorders can sometimes interfere with the functioning of the diaphragm and make the person prone to hiccups.
