Why do we get hiccups?
The short answer
A hiccup begins when the diaphragm, the main breathing muscle, contracts involuntarily. The vocal cords then close quickly, creating the familiar “hic” sound.
What can trigger them?
Eating quickly or too much, fizzy drinks, hot or spicy food, excitement, and stress can be triggers. Hiccups can also begin without an obvious reason, and ordinary episodes usually stop on their own after a few minutes.
When they last a long time
If hiccups last more than 48 hours, keep returning and affect daily life, or interfere with eating, sleeping, or breathing, talk with a healthcare professional. Home remedies vary and are not guaranteed to work.
Sources
This article provides general information and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for medical care.