Dear Doc,
To have a hiccup once in a while is normal, but I have for the last couple of months been having bouts of hiccups more regularly. Since COVID I have been gardening, which means more physical activity than I’m used to, and it is after that I realised I started having hiccupping bouts. I’m sure there is a connection, so could you explain it fully for me? Thank you.-
Mons. W. Merryville.
Dear M. Merryville,
Hiccups is an uncontrollable contraction of the diaphragm that usually indicates an irritation of this layer. The diaphragm is a muscular sheath that extends across and below the lungs. This may occur for different reasons such as overeating or emotional excitement or stress. However, hiccups that persist is concerning and warrants further investigation. The causes of persistent hiccups are numerous and can indicate a problem with the nerve that controls the diaphragm (that muscular sheath under the lungs). Infection of certain parts of the brain or nervous system; brain tumors, alcoholism and electrolyte abnormalities are a few examples of the list of causes that can cause damage. You should not overextend yourself, and if the problem persists, you should seek medical attention.
