Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Centuries ago, people claimed hiccups meant a growth spurt for children.
Today, we understand the mechanics of a hiccup: When the diaphragm — a muscle situated between the lungs and the stomach — becomes irritated, it begins to spasm. This spasm causes what is commonly known as hiccups.
This helps explain why they sometimes occur during emotional situations or temperature changes. They can also kick in after you swallow too much air, eat too quickly or too much, or experience excitement or anxiety. It is unclear if hiccups have a physiologic role.
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The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website. Skip to main content. Actions for this page Listen Print. Summary Read the full fact sheet. On this page. Symptoms of hiccups Cause of hiccups Triggers of hiccups Self-help strategies Hiccups may be symptomatic of disease Medical treatment Where to get help Things to remember.
Hiccups, or hiccoughs, are involuntary sounds made by spasms of the diaphragm. The diaphragm is a large sheet of muscle slung beneath the lungs that, together with the intercostal muscles, causes us to breathe. Page last reviewed: 13 July Next review due: 13 July Things you can do yourself to stop or prevent hiccups Although many people find these things helpful, there's no evidence that they work for everyone. Do breathe into a paper bag do not put it over your head pull your knees up to your chest and lean forward sip ice-cold water swallow some granulated sugar bite on a lemon or taste vinegar hold your breath for a short time.
Some cases of the hiccups can last for days or even months, but this is very unusual and it's usually a sign of another medical problem. You've probably heard lots of suggestions for how to get rid of hiccups, and maybe you've even tried a few. Holding your breath and counting to 10 is one way some people can get rid of their hiccups.
Other people say that drinking from the "wrong" side of a glass of water is the way to become hiccup-free.
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