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Hiccups are involuntary contractions (spasms) of the diaphragm muscle, which separates the chest and abdominal cavities and plays a key role in breathing. When the diaphragm contracts involuntarily, it causes a sudden intake of breath that is then rapidly cut off, producing the characteristic "hic" sound.
Hiccups can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Most cases of hiccups are short-lived and resolve on their own within a few minutes to a few hours. However, if hiccups persist for longer than 48 hours or are accompanied by other symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain or difficulty breathing, medical attention may be necessary.
There are a variety of home remedies and lifestyle changes that can help to relieve hiccups, such as holding the breath, drinking cold water, or breathing into a paper bag. In some cases, medications or medical procedures may be necessary to treat persistent or severe hiccups.