Frequent hiccups typically happen due to common triggers such as eating or drinking too quickly or too much, swallowing air (from chewing gum, smoking, or carbonated drinks), emotional stress, excitement, and sudden temperature changes. They occur because of spasms in the diaphragm, the muscle that controls breathing. When these muscles spasm suddenly, the vocal cords close quickly, causing the "hic" sound. If hiccups occur very often or last for more than 48 hours, it could indicate nerve irritation or damage (to the vagus or phrenic nerves), metabolic issues like diabetes or kidney problems, acid reflux, central nervous system disorders (like stroke or brain injury), or side effects from certain medications. In such cases, medical evaluation is recommended. Some detailed causes of frequent hiccups include:
- Overeating or eating too quickly, causing stomach expansion that irritates the diaphragm.
- Swallowing air through gum chewing, smoking, or carbonated beverages.
- Acid reflux where stomach acid irritates the esophagus near the diaphragm.
- Emotional triggers such as stress or excitement.
- Nerve irritation due to injury, surgery, infections, or tumors.
- Metabolic imbalances or disorders such as diabetes or kidney disease.
- Medication side effects from certain drugs like steroids, sedatives, or chemotherapy agents.
If hiccups are persistent or significantly impacting daily life, consulting a healthcare provider is important to rule out serious underlying conditions and to explore treatment options.
