What are the common causes of hiccups?

In general, hiccup refers to hiccough (singultus). Hiccoughs may be caused by various factors such as emotional stress, overeating, gastroesophageal reflux, diaphragmatic hernia, meningitis, and others. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Emotional Stress

When experiencing emotional stress, autonomic nervous system dysfunction may occur, particularly increased sympathetic nerve activity, which can stimulate the diaphragm and lead to more frequent hiccoughs. This may also be accompanied by symptoms related to anxiety, such as insomnia and increased heart rate. It's important in daily life to regulate emotions, reduce anxiety, and lower sympathetic nervous system excitability.

2. Overeating

Excessive food intake can cause overdistension of the stomach, stimulating the diaphragm and resulting in increased hiccoughing. This may also be accompanied by bloating, stomach discomfort, and indigestion. Medications such as domperidone tablets, Jianwei Xiaoshi tablets, or mosapride tablets may be used under medical guidance.

3. Gastroesophageal Reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux occurs when stomach acid and other gastric contents flow back into the esophagus, irritating both the esophagus and the diaphragm, leading to increased hiccoughs. Symptoms may include heartburn, acid regurgitation, and chest pain. Treatment may include medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, rabeprazole sodium enteric-coated tablets, or hydrotalcite chewable tablets, taken as prescribed by a physician.

4. Diaphragmatic Hernia

A diaphragmatic hernia involves a congenital or acquired defect in the diaphragm that allows abdominal organs to protrude into the thoracic cavity, compressing the diaphragm and lungs, thus causing increased hiccoughs. This may also present with difficulty breathing, chest pain, and coughing. Under medical supervision, medications such as ambroxol hydrochloride tablets, amoxicillin capsules, or salbutamol sulfate tablets may be used for treatment.

5. Meningitis

Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges caused by infection with pathogens such as bacteria or viruses. The inflammatory process can irritate the meninges and nervous system, triggering frequent hiccoughs. This may also be accompanied by central nervous system symptoms such as headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, and altered consciousness. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include ceftriaxone sodium injection, acyclovir, or dexamethasone sodium phosphate injection.

To maintain health, individuals should manage their emotions, avoid overeating, maintain healthy eating habits, undergo regular physical check-ups, and strengthen immunity through regular exercise.