2. Definitions
A hiccup or hiccough is an esophageal contraction of the
diaphragm that repeats several times per minute.
A spasm of the diaphragm resulting in a rapid,
involuntary inhalation that is stopped by the sudden
closure of the glottis and accompanied by a sharp,
distinctive sound.
3. Causes
Hiccups are caused by many central and peripheral
nervous system disorders, all from injury or irritation to
the phrenic and vagus nerves, as well as toxic or
metabolic disorders.
Chemotherapy—which can include a huge amount of
different drugs—has been associated with hiccups.
4. .
Hiccups often occur after drinking carbonated
beverages or alcohol or ingesting spicy foods.
Prolonged laughter is also known to cause hiccups.
Eating too fast can also cause the hiccups.
5. Treatment
Ordinary hiccups are cured easily without
medical intervention. However, there are a
number of anecdotal treatments for casual
cases of hiccups. Some of the common home
remedies include giving the afflicted a fright or
shock.
6. .
Eating peanut butter, taking a teaspoon of vinegar,
drinking water, holding one's breath and altering
one's breathing patterns.
7. .
Hiccups are treated medically only in severe and
persistent cases (termed "intractable“).
Sedatives such as Diazepam and chlorpromazine
are given.
