What causes frequent hiccups?

Generally speaking, hiccups refer to singultus. Frequent hiccupping may be caused by excessive intake of cold foods, indigestion, reflux esophagitis, chronic gastritis, intestinal obstruction, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Excessive Intake of Cold Foods

Consuming too many cold foods can irritate the stomach, leading to spasms of the diaphragm and resulting in frequent hiccupping. Other symptoms may include stomach pain, bloating, nausea, and belching. Applying a hot water bottle or warm towel to the stomach area may help relieve gastric spasms and discomfort. Drinking warm water in moderation can also soothe the stomach and reduce irritation caused by cold foods.

2. Indigestion

When food is not adequately digested and absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, it may be due to weakened gastrointestinal function, insufficient gastric acid secretion, delayed gastric emptying, or similar causes. Prolonged retention of food in the stomach can lead to fermentation and gas production, which may stimulate the diaphragm and trigger frequent hiccupping. Additional symptoms may include bloating, belching, nausea, and reduced appetite. Treatment under a doctor's guidance may include medications such as Jianwei Xiaoshi Tablets, Compound Azintamide Enteric-coated Tablets, or Multienzyme Tablets.

3. Reflux Esophagitis

This condition occurs when substances from the stomach or duodenum flow back into the esophagus, causing lesions in the esophageal mucosa. During reflux, irritating substances such as gastric acid may stimulate nerve endings of the diaphragm near the lower esophagus, leading to frequent hiccupping. Other symptoms may include retrosternal burning sensation, acid regurgitation, painful swallowing, and difficulty swallowing. Under medical supervision, medications such as Omeprazole Enteric-coated Capsules, Sucralfate Chewable Tablets, or Ranitidine Hydrochloride Capsules may be used for treatment.

4. Chronic Gastritis

This refers to chronic inflammation of the gastric mucosa caused by factors such as Helicobacter pylori infection, decreased immune function, or drug-induced irritation. Damage to the gastric mucosa weakens digestive function, prolonging food retention in the stomach. This can lead to fermentation and gas production, stimulating the diaphragm and causing frequent hiccupping. Other symptoms may include upper abdominal pain, fullness, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Treatment should follow a doctor’s advice and may include medications such as Sucralfate Chewable Tablets, Rebamipide Tablets, or Omeprazole Enteric-coated Capsules.

5. Intestinal Obstruction

This refers to impaired passage of intestinal contents, caused by various factors such as intestinal adhesions, tumor compression, or intussusception. In cases of intestinal obstruction, gas and fluids cannot pass smoothly through the intestines and accumulate within, stimulating both the intestinal wall and the diaphragm, thereby causing frequent hiccupping. Other possible symptoms include abdominal pain, vomiting, bloating, and absence of bowel movements. Under a doctor’s recommendation, medications such as Potassium Chloride Sustained-release Tablets, Glucose Injection, or Octreotide Acetate Injection may be used for treatment.

To prevent frequent hiccupping, it is important to avoid consuming excessive cold foods, maintain regular eating habits, pay attention to esophageal health, monitor stomach conditions, and stay aware of intestinal health. Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits can help prevent frequent episodes of hiccups.