Hiccups are a common ailment that that occurs when the diaphragm involuntary contracts and cause the throat to spasm. Hiccups can vary in frequency and occur up to 60 times a minute, according to KidsGrowth.com. While most of the time hiccups are harmless, frequent hiccups may be a sign of something more serious. Understanding the causes of frequent hiccups can help determine when medical attention may be necessary.
Excess Air
One of the most common causes of frequent hiccups is excess air. According to KidsGrowth.com, this can occur when a person eats or drinks too fast and inadvertently takes in too much air. Excess air can also enter the stomach when a person drinks too much of a carbonated drink or drinks through a straw.
GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, symptoms include frequent wet hiccups caused by stomach acids regurgitating back into the mouth and throat via the esophagus. GERD treatment usually requires lifestyle modifications like eating smaller meals more often and sleeping with the head of the bed elevated. Medication or even surgery are necessary in some cases.
Phrenic Nerve Irritation
Irritation or damage to the phrenic nerve can cause hiccups. The phrenic nerve travels from the brain to the diaphragm via the esophagus. According to Medical News Today, hot foods can irritate this nerve and bring on a case of frequent hiccups. In addition, laryngitis and overstretching the neck can also inflict irritation on this nerve and cause hiccups.
