Why does hiccups relieve discomfort in the heart?

Generally, hiccuping may relieve heart discomfort due to factors such as food regurgitation, gas accumulation, digestive system disorders, gastritis, or cardiac autonomic dysfunction. Specific explanations are as follows:

1. Food Regurgitation

Food regurgitation refers to the backward flow of food from the stomach into the esophagus, which stimulates the diaphragm and triggers hiccups. Once the food is quickly cleared, the hiccups may subside.

2. Gas Accumulation

Certain heart conditions can lead to fluid and gas buildup in the chest cavity, causing a sensation of heart discomfort. Hiccuping releases gas between the mouth and stomach, thereby alleviating the discomfort.

3. Digestive System Disorders

The stomach and esophagus are located anatomically close to the heart. After eating, if a patient becomes overly emotionally agitated, it may cause digestive system dysfunction, leading to symptoms of heart discomfort. In such cases, it's recommended to slow down eating speed and avoid eating too quickly or consuming excessively hot food.

4. Gastritis

Gastritis is a condition characterized by acute or chronic inflammation of the gastric mucosa caused by various factors. Symptoms include upper abdominal discomfort, bloating, and hiccups. Treatment may include medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules or pantoprazole sodium enteric-coated capsules, taken under a doctor’s guidance.

5. Cardiac Autonomic Nervous Dysfunction

Cardiac autonomic dysfunction occurs when the sympathetic or vagus nerves controlling the heart become overactive, resulting in symptoms such as chest tightness, palpitations, dizziness, tinnitus, and stabbing pain in the precordial area. Medications such as lorazepam tablets or fluoxetine hydrochloride capsules may be used for regulation.

If a patient experiences severe discomfort, prompt medical attention is recommended to avoid delaying treatment. It's also important to maintain healthy lifestyle habits on a daily basis.