From the Research
Causes of Singultus (Hiccups)
- Hiccups are caused by a reflex arc involving peripheral phrenic, vagal, and sympathetic pathways and central midbrain modulation 1
- Any irritant, such as physical/chemical factors, inflammation, or neoplasia, invading the arc can lead to hiccups 1
- Central causes of hiccups include stroke, space-occupying lesions, and injury, while peripheral causes include lesions along the arc, such as tumors, myocardial ischemia, and gastroesophageal reflux disease 1
- Various drugs, including anti-parkinsonism drugs, anesthetic agents, steroids, and chemotherapies, can also cause hiccups 1
Common Causes of Hiccups
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common cause of hiccups 2, 3
- Overdistension of the stomach, gastroesophageal reflux, and gastritis are also common causes of acute hiccups 4
- Other causes of hiccups include underlying gastrointestinal, neurological, cardiovascular, pulmonary, infectious, and psychogenic disorders 4