Hiccups are involuntary spasms of the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. When the diaphragm contracts, it pulls air into the lungs. The vocal cords then close, creating the characteristic “hic” sound. Hiccups can be caused by a variety of factors, including eating too quickly, drinking carbonated beverages, or being nervous.
While hiccups are usually harmless, they can be annoying and embarrassing. In some cases, hiccups can be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or a hiatal hernia. If you have persistent hiccups, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
