HICCUPS
17 Jun 2019
ABSTRACT –
Hiccups are unintentional contractions of the diaphragm muscle; happens when the intake of air gets temporarily blocked by sudden closure of vocal cords. It doesn’t happen for particular reason. It is not a major issue or trouble, but prolonged hiccups can lead to a serious medical problem.
CAUSES –
- Eating too fast
- Consumption of carbonated beverages and alcohol
- Stress and strong emotions
- Inhaling air along with chewing gum or slurping any other food item
- Psychological reactions like excitement, anxiety etc
- Conditions such as pleurisy of the diaphragm, pneumonia, or asthma
- Long term hiccups can last due to central nervous system disorders like encephalitis or meningitisy
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS –
- Irritation
- Contraction sensation in the chest, abdomen or throat
- If it stays for long, exhaustion and weight loss due to lack of sleep
DIAGNOSIS –
- Physical examination
- Laboratory test to check the signs of diabetes, inction, and kidney disease
- Imaging test to identify anatomical abnormalities that are affecting the vagus nerve, phrenic nerve or diaphragm
- Endoscopic test
PREVENTION –
- Take extra care during rapid changes in temperature
- Avoid drinking alcohol or sodas
- Don’t eat fast
TREATMENT –
- Drink ice-cold water slowly
- Acupuncture and hypnosis
- Consume granulated sugar
- Breath-in and breath-out gradually
- Take medicines and drugs in case hiccups stays for long
- Anesthesia is given to block the phrenic nerve to stop hiccups
EPIDEMIOLOGY –
- It is a general condition that affects all ages, including the fetus.
- Estimation shows that males are more prone to this condition than females.