Hiccups are involuntary spasms of the diaphragm, the muscle at the base of the lungs. The quick closing of the vocal cords that follows creates the distinctive hiccup-sound. Food choices, eating behavior, temperature changes and emotional stress commonly cause hiccups after eating. If hiccups last longer than a few days, MedlinePlus suggests seeking medical attention, as they may indicate a serious medical condition.
- Certain Foods and Beverages
Certain foods and beverages can trigger hiccups. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), hot or spicy foods, such as hot peppers, miso and curry and hot or spicy liquids are particularly known to cause hiccups. Drinking carbonated beverages, such as soft drinks or sparkling water, can also cause hiccups, due to swallowing air. In addition, the more carbonation a person consumes, the greater his or her chance becomes of hiccupping. Last but not least, excessive alcohol consumption may result in hiccups.
- Eating Too Much or Too Quickly
Eating too much at one sitting can cause the diaphragm to distend or become irritated, causing it to contract and result in hiccups. Eating too quickly commonly causes hiccups, in part because people who eat rapidly tend to swallow excessive amounts of air. Since people who eat quickly prove more likely to overeat, demonstrating both simultaneously may heighten a person's chance of experiencing hiccups even further.
