Why do we get hiccups when eating too fast?

Hiccups are sudden, involuntary contractions of the diaphragm followed by the vocal cords snapping shut, producing the characteristic “hic” sound. Eating too fast, swallowing air, drinking carbonated drinks or eating very hot or cold food can irritate the vagus or phrenic nerves, which control the diaphragm. A distended stomach pressing against the diaphragm is a common trigger. Most bouts last only a few minutes. Holding your breath, sipping cold water or stimulating the back of the throat may help by resetting the nerve signals. Persistent hiccups lasting more than 48 hours can occasionally indicate a medical condition.