Hiccuping after swimming presents an annoyance, but rarely a health problem. Hiccups result from a spasm of the diaphragm, which is the muscle that separates your chest from your stomach and plays a crucial role in respiration. When a spasm of the diaphragm occurs, an intake of air is stopped by the immediate closing of your vocal cords, producing the "hic" sound.
Causes and Remedies
Common causes of a short-term bout of hiccups include overeating, drinking carbonated beverages, drinking a large amount of alcohol, experiencing a sudden temperature change and being excited or under emotional stress, according to MayoClinic.com. There is no guaranteed method of getting rid of hiccups, but some to try include breathing into a paper bag, drinking a cup of cold water, swallowing a teaspoon of sugar or holding your breath.
Hiccups and Swimming
While no direct correlation is known to exist between hiccups and swimming, a few explanations may suffice. Because one of the causes of hiccups is a sudden temperature change, your hiccups may be related to going from a warm environment into cold water. Another possibility is that you swallow a lot of air when swimming, creating the feeling of a full stomach. A full stomach related to overeating is a potential cause of hiccups, and too much air feels like a full belly regardless of the cause.
Safety
If your hiccups only occur after swimming, when you are out of the water, the intake of air is not a concern. However, hiccups cause an involuntary intake of air that could be dangerous if you decide to go back into the water before the hiccups are gone. You may inhale water instead of air during a hiccup. Stay out of the water until your hiccups end.
When to See a Doctor
See your doctor if hiccups last more than 48 hours or are so severe they are interfering with eating, sleeping or breathing. Hiccups are usually no cause for concern, but they can occasionally signal a neurological problem or tumor.
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