What Are the Causes of Frequent Hiccups?
Disease description:
Recently, I have been experiencing persistent hiccups almost every day; however, I haven't eaten anything unusual. May I ask what could be the cause?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Hiccups, medically known as singultus, are a common physiological phenomenon usually caused by spasms of the diaphragm. The main causes include:
1. Eating habits: Eating too quickly, swallowing large amounts of air, or consuming excessive gas-producing foods (such as carbonated beverages, broccoli, etc.) can stimulate the diaphragm and lead to hiccups.
2. Emotional factors: Emotional states such as nervousness and anxiety may also cause hiccups, as individuals tend to inhale more air under such circumstances, thereby stimulating the diaphragm.
3. Disease-related factors: Certain diseases, such as chronic gastritis, reflux esophagitis, and peptic ulcers, may cause frequent hiccups by affecting digestive function or irritating the diaphragm. In addition, central nervous system disorders (such as encephalitis, meningitis, etc.) and peripheral diseases (such as gastric cancer, esophagitis, etc.) may also trigger hiccups.
4. Medication factors: Some medications, such as sedatives and steroids, may affect the central nervous system and cause hiccups.
5. Other factors: Such as vagus nerve excitation, eating or drinking too quickly, and excessive swallowing movements may also cause hiccups.
