Hiccups, harmless but disturbing activities

Hiccups or singultus is a condition when a person makes a 'hic' sound involuntarily. Hiccups can last for a few seconds or minutes, up to more than 48 hours.

Hiccups are common in everyone, including babies and children. Apart from making a 'hic' sound, hiccups can also cause pressure in the chest, stomach, and throat.

The muscle that separates the stomach and chest (diaphragm) has an important role in the human respiratory system. The diaphragm relaxes (contracts) when you breathe in, and rises back up (relaxes) when you exhale.

Hiccups occur when the diaphragm muscle contracts involuntarily and suddenly. This condition causes air to enter too quickly into the lungs so that the respiratory valves close and make a 'hic' sound.

In addition to adults, hiccups are also quite common in babies. However, hiccups in babies will generally go away on their own. Some studies even say that hiccups in babies are normal and part of the process of growth and development.

Sudden contractions of the diaphragm muscle, whether temporary or prolonged, can be triggered by various things.

Hiccups are a symptom that can sometimes be accompanied by pressure in the chest, stomach, or throat. Hiccups usually last for a few minutes, but can last longer.

In certain conditions, hiccups can last for more than 2 days or even more than 1 month. This condition is called persistent hiccups. Although rare, this condition can make sufferers experience fatigue and stress.

Temporary hiccups can go away on their own without special treatment. Check with your doctor if your hiccups last for more than 48 hours. Especially if the hiccups come repeatedly and interfere with your daily activities, such as eating, sleeping, or even breathing.