Do you really know? Why do we hiccup?
Jun 21, 2025
Hiccups are quirky, involuntary spasms that can be both amusing and irritating. The podcast explores the mechanisms behind hiccuping, highlighting the role of the diaphragm and throat. Listeners learn about potential remedies and what to watch for in long-lasting cases. It also addresses common questions about hiccup triggers and how to manage this peculiar phenomenon. Get ready to discover the science and humor behind one of the body’s most amusing oddities!
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How Hiccups Occur
- Hiccups occur due to sudden contractions of respiratory muscles and diaphragm pushing air out of the lungs.
- The epiglottis contracts, stopping air and causing the vocal cords to vibrate, creating the hiccup sound.
Causes and Triggers of Hiccups
- The exact cause of hiccups is unclear, but possible reasons include low carbon dioxide levels and nerve irritation.
- Short-term hiccups can be triggered by full stomach, soda, alcohol, or excitement.
Tips to Avoid Hiccups
- Avoid eating or drinking too quickly to reduce hiccup risk.
- Limit soda, alcohol, and overeating; manage excitement or stress to prevent short-term hiccups.