Wondering what causes hiccups? Discover the surprising reasons behind hiccups & the quickest ways to stop them backed by science!
Introduction
Hiccups are sudden, involuntary contractions of the diaphragm the muscle that helps you breathe. While usually harmless, they can be annoying. But what causes hiccups, and why do they happen? From eating too fast to nerve irritation, several factors trigger them. In this article, we’ll explore the science-backed reasons behind hiccups and the best ways to stop them fast.
What Are Hiccups?
Hiccups (medically called singultus) occur when your diaphragm spasms uncontrollably, followed by a quick closure of your vocal cords creating the classic “hic” sound. Most hiccups last a few minutes, but some can persist for hours or even days (requiring medical attention).
Top 10 Common Causes of Hiccups
1. Eating Too Quickly or Overeating
When you eat too fast, you may swallow extra air. This air can irritate your diaphragm the muscle that helps you breathe. Eating very large meals can also stretch your stomach so much that it pushes on the diaphragm, which may start hiccups.
2. Drinking Carbonated Beverages or Alcohol
Fizzy drinks like soda and sparkling water release gas in your stomach. This gas can push against the diaphragm and cause hiccups. Alcohol can also relax the diaphragm muscles, which makes hiccups more likely.
3. Sudden Temperature Changes
If you drink something very hot, like tea, and then quickly drink something cold, your diaphragm can react with sudden spasms. Eating spicy foods can also irritate the diaphragm, leading to hiccups.
4. Stress, Anxiety, or Excitement
Strong emotions such as stress, nervousness, or excitement can change the way you breathe. If you start breathing too quickly and shallowly, it can disturb your diaphragm and cause hiccups.
5. Nerve Irritation (Phrenic or Vagus Nerves)
Your phrenic and vagus nerves help control your diaphragm. If these nerves get irritated for example, from acid reflux, throat problems, or after surgery hiccups may start.
6. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
In GERD, stomach acid moves back up into the esophagus. This can irritate the nerves connected to the diaphragm, which might trigger hiccups. If hiccups last a long time, they could be a sign of GERD or another digestive problem.
7. Medications & Medical Conditions
Some medicines, like anesthesia, steroids, or certain painkillers, list hiccups as a possible side effect. Medical problems such as diabetes, strokes, or tumors can also cause ongoing hiccups.
8. Swallowing Air (Aerophagia)
Chewing gum, smoking, or sucking candy can make you swallow more air than usual. Too much air in the stomach can stretch it and push against the diaphragm, causing hiccups.
9. Pregnancy & Hormonal Changes
During pregnancy, especially in the later months, the growing uterus can press against the diaphragm. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also increase the chances of hiccups.
10. Rare Neurological or Metabolic Causes
In some rare cases, brain problems like injuries, multiple sclerosis (MS), or certain diseases such as kidney failure can cause chronic hiccups that last for days or weeks.
How to Stop Hiccups Fast: 7 Proven Remedies
1. Hold Your Breath (Increases CO₂ Levels)
Take a deep breath and hold it for about 10–15 seconds. This helps increase the carbon dioxide in your blood, which can relax your diaphragm. Repeat this 2–3 times until the hiccups stop.
2. Drink Cold Water Slowly
Sip ice-cold water slowly to stimulate the vagus nerve, which can help stop hiccups. Another option is to gargle with cold water for a few seconds to achieve the same effect.
3. Breathe Into a Paper Bag
Place a small paper bag over your mouth and nose, and breathe in and out slowly. This increases the amount of carbon dioxide in your body, which may calm the spasms in your diaphragm.
4. Eat a Spoonful of Sugar or Honey
Put a spoonful of sugar or honey in your mouth and let it dissolve slowly. The texture of sugar can stimulate nerves in your throat, helping to interrupt the hiccup reflex.
5. Pull Your Knees to Your Chest
Sit down, pull your knees up towards your chest, and hold them there for a short time. This gentle pressure can compress your diaphragm and help stop the spasms.
6. Try the “Finger in Ears” Trick
Gently insert your fingers into your ears and hold them there for about 20 seconds. This action stimulates the vagus nerve, which may help stop hiccups.
7. Acupressure (Press Between Collarbones)
Find the spot where your neck meets your chest, just between your collarbones. Apply gentle pressure there for about 30 seconds to help calm the diaphragm.
When to See a Doctor
Most hiccups go away on their own within minutes or hours. However, you should see a doctor if:You have chest pain, vomiting, or sudden weight loss, as these may be signs of a serious health problem.
Your hiccups last more than 48 hours. They make it hard to eat, sleep, or breathe.
FAQs About Hiccups
Why do we get hiccups?
Hiccups happen when the diaphragm spasms involuntarily, often due to eating too fast, nerve irritation, or stomach distension.
Can hiccups be a sign of something serious?
Rarely. Persistent hiccups (lasting days) may indicate GERD, nerve damage, or neurological issues.
Does drinking water upside down stop hiccups?
Yes! It stimulates the vagus nerve, which can reset diaphragm function.
Why do babies get hiccups so often?
Infants’ diaphragms are still developing, and feeding/swallowing air easily triggers hiccups.
Conclusion
Hiccups are usually harmless but can be frustrating. Common triggers include eating too fast, carbonated drinks, stress, and nerve irritation. Most cases resolve with simple tricks like holding your breath, drinking cold water, or sugar stimulation. However, if hiccups persist for more than two days, consult a doctor to rule out underlying conditions.
Final Tip: Next time hiccups strike, try the paper bag method or spoonful of sugar they’re the fastest fixes!
