Why do some people get hiccups more often than others?
Quick Answer
Hiccups happen when the diaphragm spasms and the vocal cords snap shut. Some people are more prone because of sensitivity in the nerves that control breathing, or because of triggers like eating fast, carbonated drinks, and stress.
The Full Story
A hiccup is an involuntary contraction of the diaphragm, followed by a quick closure of the vocal cords, which creates the familiar sound. The reflex can be triggered by stomach distension, rapid eating, fizzy drinks, excitement, or temperature changes. Some people experience hiccups more often because their nervous system is more easily triggered or because they have conditions that irritate the diaphragm or related nerves. Most hiccups are brief and harmless, but persistent hiccups lasting more than 48 hours can require medical evaluation. The exact reason one person is more susceptible than another is not always known.
Key Facts
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"Why does your diaphragm sometimes start “singing” against your will?"
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