Hiccups - involuntary physiological reaction, which is a series of sharp jerky contractions of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles and periodic overlapping of the glottis. As a rule, it is a harmless, non-threatening phenomenon, which often occurs with severe cooling, overeating, alcoholic intoxication, fright, finding in an uncomfortable position. In most cases, the discomforting condition occurs rarely and lasts no more than 5-10 minutes, stopping as suddenly as it began. However, there are cases of frequent hiccoughs (several times a day), which can signal some pathologies.
From what happens a frequent hiccup, and how to eliminate this phenomenon, we will consider further.Why is it frequent hiccups?
Causes of frequent hiccoughs may include:
- pneumonia and pleurisy, provoking irritation or damage to nerves, which are responsible for the work of the muscles of the diaphragm (chest pain is possible);
- poisoning with toxic substances (barbiturates, benzodiazepines, etc.);
- craniocerebral trauma;
- diseases of the digestive tract and digestive organs: reflux esophagitis, gastritis, esophageal diverticulum, peptic ulcer, pancreatitis, intestinal obstruction, etc. (in such cases, frequent hiccups are often accompanied by heartburn and discomfort in the abdomen);
- tumors of the neck, esophagus, lungs (difficulty in swallowing, breathing);
- stroke ;
- myocardial infarction;
- encephalitis;
- intracranial hypertension;
- diabetes mellitus and others.
How to get rid of frequent hiccups?
To eliminate the unpleasant phenomenon, many folk ways were invented. Here are the simplest and most effective:
- Drink a glass of water, making small sips at a steady pace.
- Dissolve in the mouth a small piece of lemon, sugar.
- Wide open your mouth and for a few seconds, do not force your tongue.
- Taking a deep breath, hold your breath for as long as possible.
It is worthwhile to understand that, even if one of these methods proves effective and helps to get rid of hiccups, with frequent repetition of this phenomenon it can not be ignored. In this case, it is recommended to consult a doctor who will help to identify the cause of the hiccups by assigning the necessary diagnostic methods. Only after eliminating the root cause is it possible to get rid of frequent hiccoughs associated with internal pathological processes in the body.