Hiccough

What is Hiccough?

Hiccough: A hiccough is an extraordinary type of breathing movement involving a sudden intake of air (inspiration) due to an involuntary contraction of the diaphragm accompanied by closure of the vocal apparatus (glottis) of the larynx. A hiccough is also called a hiccup.

The abrupt inspiration is the result of a sudden contraction of the diaphragm. Closure of the glottis then halts the incoming air. The column of air strikes the closed glottis to produce the characteristic sound: a hiccup.

Hiccups are often rhythmic. If self-limited, they are just a minor nuisance, but prolonged hiccups can become a major medical problem.

What are the causes of Hiccough?

It has been said that hiccoughs are caused by the lack of sufficient intake of oxygen in the air we breath. Many people have many beliefs about what actually causes hiccoughs, and we do not claim to know the true cause(s). However, we do know that when one hiccoughs, there is an involuntary or reflex action of a quick inhalation, accompanied by the brief pain or discomfort caused when the top of the closed throat is inhaled against.

hiccough are caused by the dis positioning of the diaphragm. when there is food in the stomach and you breath your outer surface of the diaphragm tends to curl and cause hiccough.

Hiccough can also be caused by-

• Swallowing hot or irritating substances.
• Diseases of the pleura (thin membrane layers that cover the lung).
• Pneumonia.
• Uremia.
• Alcoholism.
• Use of certain prescription or non-prescription drugs.
• Disorders of the stomach, esophagus, bowel, or pancreas.
• Pregnancy.
• Bladder irritation.
• Hepatitis.
• Spread of cancer from another part of the body to the liver or part of the pleura.
• Peritonitis.
• Recent surgery, especially abdominal surgery.
• Emotional causes.

What are the symptoms of Hiccough?

Some symptoms of hiccough are-

1. Coma & stupor.
2. Hallucinations.
3. Syncope & collapse.
4. Convulsions.
5. Dizziness & giddiness.
6. Sleep disturbances.
7. Pyrexia of unknown origin.
8. Malaise & fatigue.
9. Hyperhidrosis.

What is the treatment done for Hiccough?

Popular remedies that may stop a short bout of hiccups include:

• Sipping ice water.
• Swallowing granulated sugar.
• Biting on a lemon.
• Breath holding, breathing fast, or breathing into a paper bag.
• Gasping after a sudden fright.
• Pulling your knees up to your chest.