ABSTRACT – Hiccups are unintentional contractions of the diaphragm muscle; happens when the intake of air gets temporarily blocked...
Hiccups
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 fastn
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.
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