Jose F.
asked • 01/17/13Do we know what causes hiccups?
Do we know what causes hiccups?
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1 Expert Answer
Inactive Tutor answered • 01/17/13
Tutor
New to Wyzant
Yes, hiccups occur when the diaphragm, the large sheet of muscle between the chest and the abdomen, goes into a spasm. This muscle assists in breathing which is why it causes a person to inhale and make a funny sound.
The cause can be from eating or drinking too fast, sudden changes in the air temperature, even stress can cause it to happen to some people. Smoking is another reason why people sometimes get this muscle spasm.
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Chuck R.
Hiccups are caused by an interruption in breathing. This can come from any number of causes including eating or drinking to quickly. An interruption in breathing irritates a nerve known as the Vagus Nerve that runs from the skull down to the stomach. When the Vagus Nerve is irritated it can cause the diaphragm to involuntarily spasm which is what makes you hiccup!! You can find out more about hiccups and how to stop them at www.hicural.com
01/19/13