We all get the hiccups occasionally – a sudden, involuntary spasm of the diaphragm followed by that characteristic 'hic' sound. Annoying, yes, but usually fleeting. But what if they just...won't...stop? If you're constantly asking yourself, "Why do I keep getting hiccups?", you might be experiencing chronic hiccups.
While a single, isolated bout is often triggered by things like eating too fast, drinking carbonated beverages, or sudden temperature changes, persistent hiccups (lasting longer than 48 hours) or intractable hiccups (lasting longer than a month) can point to underlying issues.
Possible culprits range from nerve irritation and certain medications to gastrointestinal problems or even central nervous system disorders. Stress and anxiety can also be triggers.
So, what should you do? Keeping a hiccup diary to track potential triggers is a great first step. If your hiccups are persistent or intractable, it's crucial to consult a doctor to rule out any serious underlying medical conditions and explore potential treatment options. Don't let those hiccups keep you down!
