Hiccups are actually a neurological reflex governed by a structure called the “ergic reflex arc”. Under normal circumstances, this reflex arc is silent and does not function.
In some cases, when the local diaphragm (the muscle that separates the thoracic and abdominal cavities), the phrenic nerve, the vagus nerve or part of the central nerve that makes up this reflex arc is stimulated, the normally silent reflex arc suddenly awakens and causes a series of reactions.
1. Paroxysmal spasms occur in the diaphragm unilaterally or bilaterally, that is, a burst of strong unconscious contractions.
When the diaphragm contracts, the thoracic cavity suddenly expands and negative pressure is formed in the lungs, and air is sucked in from the mouth and nose.
3. When the vocal cords suddenly close, the flow of inhaled air is interrupted, and a short hiccup sound is emitted.
I. Causes of hiccups
1.Any action that stimulates the erratic reflex arc can cause hiccups, such as eating a lot, coughing, getting emotional, drinking carbonated drinks, laughing, taking drugs, etc.
2. Most often, after swallowing, the act of swallowing makes us swallow a lot of air while swallowing food, which accumulates at the top of the stomach. This part of the body can easily stimulate the diaphragm and start the erratic reflex.
Second, some hiccups are a sign of disease
1. Hiccups are not just a “pastime” after a good meal, but may also be a sign of some diseases.
2. Diseases such as cervical spine and cranial injury, neurological tumors, cerebrovascular disease and infections can also cause pathological hiccups once the erratic reflex center is invaded.
How to make hiccups stop
Although most hiccups stop on their own after a period of time, the physical and mental torture they cause can be maddening. Artificially stopping hiccups not only provides early relief from discomfort, but also gives a sense of triumphant pleasure.
There is a method for everyone, but no one method works for everyone. A few methods with a high success rate are listed here.
1, the upper body as far forward as possible to the head low waist high position, in this state a large gulp of water, take care not to be choked.
2, put a paper bag over the mouth, breathe several times. This method also has relief for emotional agitation.
3.Swallow bread or bun pieces. Do not choke on the size.
4. Pull your tongue outward until the next burp disappears.
5. Stand upside down for as long as you can.
6.Be frightened and use with caution if you have cardiovascular disease.
7, massage the rectum, the specific steps as described at the beginning of the article, the operation may require the help of others.
8.If the hiccups do not stop ……
9.Hiccups that do not stop for more than 48 hours are called “persistent erratic reflux”. Such prolonged hiccups can lead to abnormalities in digestive and respiratory functions, in addition to affecting work and rest.
10. Most of the persistent hiccups are caused by diseases such as reflux esophagitis, esophageal hiatus hernia, subdiaphragmatic abscess, pericarditis, electrolyte disorders, and various neurological diseases that stimulate the hiccup reflex arc. In addition to stopping the hiccups, it is more important to treat the original disease.
If you encounter hiccups that you can’t handle, go to a hospital gastroenterology department as soon as possible.