I don't know why I keep getting hiccups.
Disease description:
I have been experiencing persistent and uncontrollable hiccups recently for unknown reasons. They occur every few minutes, and sometimes become more frequent after eating or drinking. I also feel some chest tightness. What could be the possible cause of this issue?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Hiccups, medically referred to as singultus, are a common physiological phenomenon usually caused by involuntary, intermittent contractions of the diaphragm. Frequent hiccups may also be a physiological occurrence, resulting from sudden, involuntary contractions of the diaphragm, and are typically short-lived in most cases.
The causes of hiccups vary and may be related to eating too quickly or excessively, alcohol consumption, emotional excitement, swallowing air, gastroesophageal reflux, medication side effects, or neurological disorders. Frequent or persistent hiccups may indicate underlying health issues such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastritis, gallbladder disease, or central nervous system disorders. If hiccups are accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or weight loss, timely medical evaluation is advised.
Improper eating habits are also common causes. For example, drinking carbonated beverages, eating too quickly, swallowing air, or consuming food that is too cold or hot can all stimulate the diaphragm and trigger hiccups. Certain medical conditions can also cause hiccups, such as gastrointestinal disorders including gastritis and gastroesophageal reflux disease. These conditions may be accompanied by symptoms like heartburn or stomach pain.
