Hiccup

A sudden, involuntary spasm of the diaphragm muscle and often intercostal muscles, followed by sudden closure of the glottis, producing the characteristic inspiratory sound. Possible causes for short-term hiccups are dietary habits (eating quickly, aerophagia, carbonated drinks, alcohol), emotional triggers (sudden excitement/fear), and sudden shift in body temperature. Persistent hiccups may be caused by GERD, gastritis, vagus or phrenic nerve irritation, CNS disorders (stroke, meningitis, encephalitis), kidney disease, diabetes, electrolyte imbalances, and medications (steroids, tranquilizers, or opiate drugs).