While hiccups can be easily stopped with some maneuvers, they can be extremely stubborn at times. Hiccups, which can be heard intermittently or repeatedly, may not last long and can cause stress. In addition, hiccups that do not exceed 48 hours can lead to serious diseases such as laryngeal diseases, lung and brain tumors, infection in the heart membrane, and blockage in the cerebral vessels. Memorial Antalya Hospital, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Prof. Dr. Mustafa Asım Şafak gave information about hiccups.
Stating that hiccups are caused by the rhythmic contractions of the respiratory muscles of the diaphragm and sometimes the muscles between the ribs, Şafak, “A sudden and rapid breathing movement is interrupted by the closure of the vocal cords. It is called hiccups because of the hiccups that occur during this time. It can continue to repeat approximately 4-60 times per minute. Types of hiccups are classified according to their duration, if they last less than 48 hours, they are acute hiccups, those that last 2-30 days are called persistent and those that last longer than 1 month are called unbearable hiccups. ” said.
It negatively affects life
Stating that hiccups generally occur as a result of gastrointestinal system and central nervous system disorders, Şafak said that acute hiccups are generally He stated that it is seen in children and usually resolves spontaneously. It makes eating, sleeping and socializing significantly difficult. There are over a hundred identified causes of hiccups, but central nervous system diseases should be considered in complaints of persistent and persistent hiccups. The reasons that trigger hiccups can be listed as reflux disease, overeating or distension of the stomach with carbonated drinks, excessive spicy diet, excessive alcohol intake, stimulation of the lungs with cigarettes or offensive odors, excessive enthusiasm or sadness.
May be a harbinger of different diseases
If hiccups are the only complaint, brain diseases do not come to mind, there must be other symptoms as well. Reflux disease and gastric hernia can be counted among the first possible causes. Heart diseases such as coronary artery disease, pericarditis and aortic aneurysm should be investigated. Nose, nasal and laryngeal diseases should be examined, and external ear canal foreign bodies should be considered. In addition, hiccups can be seen as electrolyte imbalances, uremia, hyperglycemia, poisoning or as a side effect of some drugs. In addition, hiccups can be seen as a result of psychological conditions such as anxiety, extreme stress and euphoria. A number of physical maneuvers can be effective for the treatment of sudden onset and short-term hiccups. These are nasal and nasal applications, vagus nerve stimulation and respiratory maneuvers. It is very important to detect the underlying disease for the treatment of persistent and intolerable hiccups. However, in cases where the cause cannot be determined or the underlying disease cannot be treated, it may be necessary to resort to symptomatic drug treatments
Taking vinegar into the nose, smelling a sharp-smelling substance such as lemon or ammonia, breathing rapidly, taking a deep breath and holding our breath, and gagging reflex in the throat. Touching the back of the tongue with a small spoon to stimulate it, swallowing ice or drinking ice water, washing the face with cold water or applying a cold compress to the face can be applied during hiccups.
