Why We Get Hiccups}
Have you ever wondered what causes hiccups and can they be dangerous.
Hiccups are caused due to the involuntary contraction of diaphragm. Diaphragm is a partition that separates chest and the abdomen. It is the muscle located just below the lungs. It is caused when diaphragm becomes irritated. It is needed when we inhale air and it goes from our nose to our mouth and then from the wind pipe to your lungs. When we inhale air very quickly, air suddenly gush in and causes hiccups. When air hits your voice box, then it produces a strange sound which is called hiccup. The reasons for hiccups can be eating quickly, laughing out loud and having spicy food. If you have undergone any abdominal surgery, then also sometimes it can irritate the nerves of the diaphragm and hiccups cause. One of the biggest reasons for hiccups is consumption of alcohol. Most of the hiccups are harmless and mild and they go on their own but if you get hiccups for more than 24 hours, then you must consult a doctor. Hiccups can be prevented by avoiding over eating, consumption of alcohol or eating too quickly. You should also avoid taking spicy food. The symptom of hiccup is just the forceful movement of the diaphragm. Home remedies to reduce the discomfort caused by hiccups can be
Drink a glass of water quickly
Holding your tongue
Hold your breath for sometime
Breathing into a paper bag can also help
Placing sugar under your tongue can also reduce the discomfort caused due to hiccups
Scaring someone is also one of the best methods for hiccup relief. Counting in reverse order can also help. But if the problem still persists, then check with a doctor. It is better to observe what you did just before you got hiccups. It will help you to know the trigger which causes hiccups. He/she will do something which will relax the diaphragm muscles. In most of the cases, medical attention is needed not to be sought. But if you feel abdominal pain, vomiting etc with hiccups then it is better to seek medical advice.