Can hunger cause hiccups?

Feb 25, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Xuemei
Introduction
Hiccups usually refer to singultus. Singultus often occurs when one is hungry. If a person does not eat for an extended period, excessive gastric acid is secreted in the body. When there is too much gastric acid, it directly affects the gastric mucosa, causing damage, and also triggers spasms of the diaphragm, leading to singultus. This is especially common among patients with stomach conditions such as gastritis or peptic ulcers.

Hiccups usually refer to singultus. Singultus often occurs when one is hungry.

If a person does not eat for an extended period, excessive gastric acid is secreted in the stomach. When there is too much gastric acid, it directly affects the gastric mucosa, causing damage. It may also lead to spasms of the diaphragm, resulting in singultus. This is especially common in patients with gastric conditions such as gastritis or peptic ulcers, who produce excessive gastric acid when hungry. This increases gastrointestinal motility and stimulates the diaphragm, triggering spasms and causing singultus.

It is recommended to eat slowly when hungry, avoid overeating, and maintain a balanced diet. If singultus symptoms occur, medications may be taken under medical guidance to help relieve symptoms. Commonly used medications include omeprazole enteric-coated tablets and hydrotalcite (aluminum magnesium carbonate) tablets.


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