What triggers hiccups in humans. How long do hiccups typically last. Can chronic hiccups be a sign of an underlying health condition. What are some proven methods to stop hiccups quickly. Are there any medical treatments available for persistent hiccups.

The Anatomy of a Hiccup: Unraveling the Involuntary Reflex

Hiccups are a common physiological phenomenon that most people experience occasionally. But what exactly happens in our body when we hiccup? A hiccup consists of two main components:

1. An involuntary contraction of the diaphragm, the primary muscle responsible for breathing
2. A sudden closure of the vocal cords, producing the characteristic “hic” sound

This reflex action, while usually harmless, can be quite bothersome when it persists. Understanding the mechanics behind hiccups can help us better comprehend why they occur and how to address them effectively.

The Role of the Diaphragm in Hiccups

The diaphragm, a dome-shaped muscle located at the base of the lungs, plays a crucial role in the hiccupping process. During normal breathing, the diaphragm contracts and relaxes rhythmically. However, when irritated or stimulated abnormally, it can suddenly contract, leading to a rapid intake of air. This sudden inhalation is the first part of the hiccup reflex.

Vocal Cord Involvement in Hiccup Sound Production

Immediately following the diaphragm’s contraction, the vocal cords close briefly. This quick closure interrupts the incoming rush of air, creating the distinctive “hic” sound we associate with hiccups. The interplay between the diaphragm and vocal cords occurs in a matter of milliseconds, resulting in the familiar hiccup sensation and sound.

Common Triggers: What Causes Hiccups in Everyday Life?

Hiccups can be triggered by various factors, many of which are related to our daily habits and activities. Some common causes include:

• Eating too quickly or consuming large portions
• Swallowing air while eating or drinking
• Consuming carbonated beverages
• Eating spicy or hot foods
• Drinking alcohol
• Sudden temperature changes in the stomach (e.g., consuming very hot or cold foods)
• Stress or excitement

Understanding these triggers can help individuals identify and avoid potential hiccup-inducing situations. However, it’s important to note that hiccups can sometimes occur without any apparent cause.

The Connection Between Eating Habits and Hiccups

Our eating habits play a significant role in triggering hiccups. When we eat too quickly or take large bites, we tend to swallow more air along with our food. This excess air can distend the stomach and irritate the diaphragm, potentially leading to hiccups. Similarly, carbonated drinks introduce gas into the stomach, which can have the same effect.

Emotional and Physical Stress as Hiccup Triggers

Interestingly, our emotional state can also influence the occurrence of hiccups. Feelings of excitement, anxiety, or stress can cause changes in our breathing patterns, potentially leading to diaphragm irritation and hiccups. Additionally, physical stress on the body, such as laughing vigorously or engaging in intense physical activity, may sometimes trigger a bout of hiccups.

Medical Conditions Associated with Chronic Hiccups

While most hiccup episodes are brief and harmless, persistent or chronic hiccups can sometimes be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Chronic hiccups are defined as episodes lasting more than 48 hours or recurring frequently. Some medical conditions that may cause chronic hiccups include:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Tumors or infections affecting the central nervous system
• Certain medications
• Metabolic disorders
• Brain injuries or strokes
• Disorders affecting the vagus or phrenic nerves

If you experience persistent hiccups that interfere with your daily life, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and Hiccups

GERD is a common digestive disorder that can sometimes lead to chronic hiccups. The repeated backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus can irritate the diaphragm and the nerves connected to it, potentially triggering persistent hiccups. Managing GERD through lifestyle changes and medication can often help alleviate chronic hiccups associated with this condition.

Neurological Causes of Chronic Hiccups

In some cases, chronic hiccups may be linked to neurological conditions or injuries. Tumors, infections, or trauma affecting the brain stem or the nerves that control the diaphragm can disrupt the normal hiccup reflex, leading to persistent episodes. Diagnosing and treating these underlying neurological issues is crucial for managing chronic hiccups of this nature.

Home Remedies: Can You Stop Hiccups Naturally?

Many people have their go-to methods for stopping hiccups, often passed down through generations or shared among friends. While scientific evidence supporting these remedies is limited, many individuals find them helpful. Some popular home remedies include:

• Holding your breath for a short period
• Drinking a glass of water quickly
• Swallowing a teaspoon of granulated sugar
• Pulling on your tongue
• Breathing into a paper bag
• Biting on a lemon wedge
• Gargling with ice water

These methods often aim to disrupt the hiccup reflex by changing breathing patterns, stimulating the vagus nerve, or distracting the mind. While they may not work for everyone, they are generally harmless to try.

The Science Behind Breath-Holding Techniques

Holding your breath is one of the most common remedies for hiccups. This technique works by increasing the level of carbon dioxide in your bloodstream, which may help relax the diaphragm and stop the hiccup reflex. Additionally, the act of focusing on holding your breath can serve as a distraction, potentially interrupting the hiccup cycle.

Stimulating the Vagus Nerve to Stop Hiccups

Several home remedies for hiccups involve stimulating the vagus nerve, which plays a role in regulating the diaphragm. Techniques such as drinking cold water, gargling, or pulling on the tongue are thought to stimulate this nerve, potentially interrupting the hiccup reflex. While anecdotal evidence supports these methods, more research is needed to fully understand their effectiveness.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Hiccups

While most hiccup episodes resolve on their own within a few minutes to a few hours, there are instances when medical attention may be necessary. You should consider consulting a healthcare professional if:

• Your hiccups last for more than 48 hours
• Hiccups interfere with your eating, drinking, or sleeping
• You experience recurring episodes of prolonged hiccups
• Hiccups are accompanied by severe abdominal pain, fever, or difficulty swallowing
• You have reason to believe your hiccups are related to a medication you’re taking

A doctor can help determine if there’s an underlying cause for your persistent hiccups and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Diagnostic Procedures for Chronic Hiccups

When evaluating chronic hiccups, healthcare providers may perform various diagnostic tests to identify potential underlying causes. These may include:

• Blood tests to check for infections or metabolic imbalances
• Imaging studies such as chest X-rays or CT scans
• Endoscopy to examine the upper digestive tract
• Neurological exams to assess nerve function

The results of these tests can help guide the treatment approach for persistent hiccups.

Potential Complications of Untreated Chronic Hiccups

While rare, chronic hiccups left untreated can lead to various complications, including:

• Sleep disturbances and fatigue
• Difficulty eating and drinking, potentially leading to weight loss and dehydration
• Gastroesophageal reflux
• Speech interruptions
• Psychological distress and decreased quality of life

Addressing chronic hiccups promptly can help prevent these potential complications and improve overall well-being.

Medical Treatments for Persistent Hiccups

When home remedies and lifestyle changes fail to resolve chronic hiccups, medical interventions may be necessary. Treatment options can vary depending on the underlying cause and may include:

1. Medications: Various drugs can be prescribed to treat persistent hiccups, including:
   • Baclofen, a muscle relaxant
   • Chlorpromazine, an antipsychotic medication
   • Metoclopramide, used to treat gastrointestinal disorders
   • Gabapentin, an anti-epileptic drug that can also help with hiccups
2. Nerve blocks: In some cases, injecting an anesthetic into specific nerves can help stop chronic hiccups
3. Surgical interventions: In rare, severe cases, surgical procedures to disable the phrenic nerve may be considered
4. Alternative therapies: Some patients find relief through acupuncture or hypnosis, although more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness

The choice of treatment depends on the individual case and should be discussed thoroughly with a healthcare provider.

The Role of Baclofen in Treating Intractable Hiccups

Baclofen, a muscle relaxant, has shown promise in treating persistent hiccups. It works by reducing the excitability of the nerves controlling the diaphragm. Studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in many cases of intractable hiccups, making it a common first-line medication for this condition. However, like all medications, it can have side effects and should only be taken under medical supervision.

Exploring Nerve Block Procedures for Hiccup Relief

In some challenging cases of chronic hiccups, nerve block procedures may be considered. These involve injecting an anesthetic agent near specific nerves involved in the hiccup reflex, such as the phrenic nerve or branches of the vagus nerve. While generally safe when performed by experienced professionals, nerve blocks are typically reserved for cases where other treatments have failed.

Prevention Strategies: Minimizing the Risk of Hiccups

While it’s not always possible to prevent hiccups entirely, certain strategies can help reduce their frequency:

• Eat and drink slowly, taking smaller bites and sips
• Avoid carbonated beverages or drink them slowly
• Limit intake of alcohol and spicy foods
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like deep breathing or meditation
• Maintain good posture while eating to reduce air swallowing
• Stay hydrated
• Avoid sudden temperature changes in your stomach (e.g., alternating between very hot and cold foods)

By being mindful of these factors, you may be able to reduce the likelihood of experiencing hiccups, especially if you’re prone to them.

The Importance of Mindful Eating in Hiccup Prevention

Mindful eating practices can play a significant role in preventing hiccups. By focusing on your meals, chewing thoroughly, and eating at a relaxed pace, you can reduce the amount of air swallowed during meals. This not only helps prevent hiccups but can also improve digestion and enhance your overall eating experience.

Managing Stress to Reduce Hiccup Occurrences

Given the potential link between stress and hiccups, incorporating stress management techniques into your daily routine may help reduce hiccup episodes. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and relaxation practices like yoga or mindfulness meditation can contribute to overall stress reduction and potentially lower the frequency of stress-induced hiccups.

Understanding the mechanisms behind hiccups, their potential causes, and available treatments can empower individuals to manage this common yet sometimes troublesome phenomenon effectively. While most hiccup episodes are brief and harmless, being aware of when to seek medical attention and knowing various remedies can provide peace of mind and quick relief when needed. As research in this area continues, we may uncover new insights and more effective treatments for those suffering from chronic hiccups, improving quality of life and overall well-being.

Hiccups | MedlinePlus

Also called: Hiccough

What are hiccups?

Have you ever wondered what is happening when you hiccup? There are two parts to a hiccup. The first is an involuntary movement of your diaphragm. The diaphragm is a muscle at the base of your lungs. It is the main muscle used for breathing. The second part of a hiccup is a quick closing of your vocal cords. This is what causes the “hic” sound you make.

What causes hiccups?

Hiccups can start and stop for no obvious reason. But they often happen when something irritates your diaphragm, such as:

• Eating too quickly
• Eating too much
• Eating hot or spicy foods
• Drinking alcohol
• Drinking carbonated drinks
• Diseases that irritate the nerves that control the diaphragm
• Feeling nervous or excited
• A bloated stomach
• Certain medicines
• Abdominal surgery
• Metabolic disorders
• Central nervous system disorders

How can I get rid of hiccups?

Hiccups usually go away on their own after a few minutes. You have probably heard different suggestions about how to cure hiccups. There is no proof that they work, but they are not harmful, so you could try them. They include:

• Breathing into a paper bag
• Drinking or sipping a glass of cold water
• Holding your breath
• Gargling with ice water

What are the treatments for chronic hiccups?

Some people have chronic hiccups. This means that the hiccups last more than a few days or keep coming back. Chronic hiccups can interfere with your sleep, eating, drinking, and talking. If you have chronic hiccups, contact your health care provider. If you have a condition that is causing the hiccups, treating that condition may help. Otherwise, treatment options include medicines, surgery, and other procedures.

• Chronic Hiccup

  (Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center)

• Hiccups

  (Medical Encyclopedia)

  Also in Spanish

• Hiccups

  (Merck & Co. , Inc.)

  Also in Spanish

• What Causes Hiccups?

  (Nemours Foundation)

  Also in Spanish

• ClinicalTrials. gov: Hiccup

  (National Institutes of Health)

• Article: Hiccups due to Chiari type I malformation.

• Article: What percentage of patients with cancer develop hiccups with oxaliplatin- or. ..

• Article: A randomized, double-blinded feasibility trial of educational materials for hiccups in…

• Hiccups — see more articles

Hiccups: Causes, treatments, and complications

Hiccups happen when a person’s intake of air becomes momentarily blocked. Possible causes include having gas in the stomach, eating spicy food, and having an underlying health condition.

When a hiccup forms, it is because of a sudden, involuntary contraction of the diaphragm at the same time as a contraction of the voice box, or larynx, and the total closure of the glottis, which is where the vocal cords are located. As a result, there is a sudden rush of air into the lungs, accompanied by the familiar “hic” sound.

Hiccups are medically known as synchronous diaphragmatic flutter or singultus. They can occur individually or in bouts. They are often rhythmic, meaning that the interval between each hiccup is relatively constant.

Most people have hiccups from time to time, and they usually resolve without treatment within a few minutes.

Rarely, there may be prolonged or chronic hiccups, which can last for a month or longer. Hiccups that last for longer than 2 months are known as intractable hiccups.

If a bout of hiccups lasts for longer than 48 hours, this is considered persistent, and the person should contact a doctor. This tends to be more common in men than women and could signify a more serious medical condition.

Fast facts on hiccups

• The exact cause of hiccups remains unclear, but experts have linked chronic hiccups to a wide range of conditions, including stroke and gastrointestinal problems.
• Most cases resolve without treatment, but prolonged hiccups can lead to complications such as insomnia and depression.
• If hiccups last for longer than 48 hours, the person should contact a doctor, who may prescribe muscle relaxants.
• Avoiding alcohol and not eating too quickly can reduce the chance of experiencing hiccups.

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The National Organization for Rare Disorders describes hiccups as “an involuntary spasmodic contraction of the muscle at the base of the lungs (diaphragm) followed by the rapid closure of the vocal cords.”

A wide range of underlying conditions can trigger chronic or persistent hiccups.

Exactly how or why short bouts of hiccups happen remains unclear, but experts have linked some factors to a higher chance of experiencing them. The sections below look at some of these factors in more detail.

Lifestyle factors

The following may trigger hiccups:

• eating hot or spicy food that irritates the phrenic nerve, which is located near the esophagus
• having gas in the stomach that presses against the diaphragm
• eating too much or causing stomach distension
• drinking sodas, hot liquids, or alcoholic drinks, especially carbonated drinks
• experiencing stress or strong emotions

Some medications — such as opiates, benzodiazepines, anesthesia, corticosteroids, barbiturates, and methyldopa — can also cause hiccups.

Medical conditions

Often, hiccups occur unexpectedly, and neither the person nor the doctor can identify their likely cause.

However, doctors have linked chronic hiccups to several conditions. These include:

• gastrointestinal conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease, a small bowel obstruction, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• respiratory conditions, such as pleurisy of the diaphragm, pneumonia, or asthma
• excessive and habitual consumption of alcohol
• conditions that affect the central nervous system, such as a traumatic brain injury, encephalitis, a brain tumor, or a stroke
• conditions that irritate the vagus nerve, such as meningitis, pharyngitis, or goiter
• psychological reactions, including grief, excitement, anxiety, stress, and shock
• conditions that affect metabolism, including hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, and diabetes
• liver and kidney problems
• cancer, either as a result of damage caused by the condition or as a side effect of the treatment, such as chemotherapy
• conditions of the autonomic nervous system, which also affects breathing, sweating, the heartbeat, hiccups, and coughing

Other conditions that may be related to hiccups include bladder irritation, liver cancer, pancreatitis, pregnancy, and hepatitis. Surgical procedures and lesions may also be risk factors.

Infants may experience hiccups more frequently during or after feeding, as they may swallow food too quickly or overfeed. Hiccups could also be a sign of an infant being full. Therefore, pediatricians typically recommend short feeds with burping breaks.

Hiccups may also occur due to an infant’s breathing and swallowing not yet being in sync. In turn, this can cause an infant to draw breath and swallow, which can produce a hiccup.

Hiccups in infants may also result from changes in stomach temperature. For example, this may be the case if they consume a cold drink then have something warm to eat.

Generally, hiccups tend to be a sign of healthy growth and development. However, frequent hiccups may also result from GERD, which is a common and easily treatable condition in infants.

Hiccups alone are not a sign of reflux. Some other possible symptoms in infants with suspected GERD include:

• crying more frequently
• arching the back excessively during or after feeds
• spitting up more often than usual

Parents and caregivers should consult a pediatrician if they notice that their infant is experiencing several symptoms and suspect that reflux may be causing them.

Most cases of hiccups go away after a few minutes or hours with no medical treatment. If they persist, however, a person should contact a doctor. The following tips may help, but their effectiveness remains unclear.

Tips for getting rid of hiccups

The following tips may help get rid of hiccups:

• Sip ice-cold water slowly or gargle with very cold water.
• Hold the breath for a short time, then breathe out. Do this three or four times every 20 minutes.
• While swallowing, place gentle pressure on the nose.
• Place gentle pressure on the diaphragm.
• Bite on a lemon.
• Swallow some granulated sugar.
• Take a tiny amount of vinegar, just enough to taste.
• Breathe in and out of a paper bag. Never use a plastic bag for this, and never cover the head with the bag.
• Sit down and hug the knees as close to the chest as possible for a short time.
• Lean forward to compress the chest gently.
• Try an alternative remedy, such as acupuncture or hypnosis.
• Gently pull on the tongue.
• Rub the eyes.
• Gently touch one finger to the throat to try to trigger a gag reflex.

Many of these tips have been passed down through generations. They may be effective for some people, but there has been little research to support their use.

Medications

If a person has an underlying condition, managing it will probably resolve the hiccups.

If prolonged hiccups are interfering with a person’s quality of life, a doctor may prescribe a medication.

Chlorpromazine is the first-line treatment, as it is the only medication with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval to treat hiccups.

A doctor may recommend the following medications for hiccups if there appears to be no underlying condition:

• metoclopramide (Reglan), which is an antinausea medication that may help some people with hiccups
• baclofen (Lioresal), which is a muscle relaxant (off-label use)
• gabapentin, which is an antiseizure medication that doctors commonly prescribe for neuropathic pain and that can help alleviate the symptoms of hiccups (off-label use)

Ephedrine or ketamine can treat hiccups related to anesthesia or surgery.

For hiccups, doctors usually prescribe a low-dose, 2-week course of medication. They may gradually increase the amount until the hiccups are gone. The course and dosage will depend on the severity of the hiccups, the person’s general health, and age.

Surgery

In severe cases that do not respond to other treatments, a surgeon may inject medication into the phrenic nerve to temporarily block the nerve’s action or sever the phrenic nerve in the neck.

Prolonged hiccups can lead to complications such as:

• Weight loss and dehydration: If the hiccups are long term and occur at short intervals, it can become difficult to eat.
• Insomnia: If prolonged hiccups persist during the sleeping hours, it can be hard to fall asleep or stay asleep.
• Fatigue: Prolonged hiccups can be exhausting, especially if they make it hard to sleep or eat.
• Communication problems: It can be difficult for the person to speak if they have hiccups.
• Depression: Long-term hiccups can increase the risk of developing clinical depression.
• Delayed wound healing: Persistent hiccups can make it harder for post-surgical wounds to heal, thereby increasing the risk of infections or bleeding after surgery.

Other potential complications include an irregular heartbeat and GERD.

Hiccups that last for under 48 hours do not usually need any medical attention because they typically resolve on their own. If they persist for longer than this, the person should consult a doctor.

The doctor may ask:

• when the hiccups began
• how often they occur
• if they are happening all the time
• what the person was doing before the hiccups started

They will likely perform a general physical examination and a neurological exam to check the person’s:

• reflexes
• balance
• coordination
• eyesight
• sense of touch
• muscle strength
• muscle tone

If an underlying condition may be the cause, the doctor may order the following tests:

• blood tests to check for infections, kidney disease, or diabetes
• imaging tests — such as an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI scan — to assess for any anatomical irregularities that may be affecting the phrenic or vagus nerves or the diaphragm
• an endoscopic test, in which a healthcare professional passes an endoscope — which is a flexible tube with a small camera at the end — down the person’s throat to check the windpipe or esophagus
• en electrocardiogram to check for heart-related conditions by measuring electrical activity in the heart

Some causes of hiccups are preventable. A few ways to reduce the chance of experiencing hiccups include:

• avoiding sudden changes in temperature
• not drinking alcohol or sodas
• eating moderately and not too quickly

Most hiccups are brief and go away after a short while. However, if they persist or cause worrying symptoms, the person should contact a doctor.

Why a person hiccups and how to get rid of hiccups at home

Hiccups are usually short-lived, but sometimes a constantly repeated reflex becomes annoying. How to explain the sudden shudder of the whole body, accompanied by characteristic sounds, and is this physiological phenomenon so safe?

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Why do we hiccup and when hiccups can indicate serious health problems.

Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

Hiccups seem to be a harmless reflex that causes laughter from others and gives you only a short-term discomfort. However, this reaction of the body should be taken more seriously – and here’s why.

What happens to the body when you hiccup?

Hiccups are a normal reflex of the body, like sneezing or coughing. It is needed in order to rid the stomach of excess air.

A person begins to hiccup when the diaphragm and chest muscles contract sharply. The spasm causes the glottis to close, and the air ejected from the lungs is accompanied by an involuntary sound.

Causes of hiccups

Believe me, hiccups do not occur because someone you know remembers you. However, it can be associated with both physiological and emotional reasons. Here are a few highlights:

• overeating or eating too fast;
• consumption of carbonated drinks or large amounts of alcohol;
• stress or anxiety;
• sudden change in temperature;
• swallowing air while sucking on candy or chewing gum.

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Why is hiccups dangerous?

Usually the hiccups do not last longer than a couple of minutes, but in rare cases the phenomenon may be delayed. There are cases of chronic hiccups, when its episodes lasted for 48 hours.

Doctors associate prolonged urges with irritation of the phrenic nerve or damage to the nerves of the chest. Such problems are the result of various diseases. For example, inflammation of the eardrum, pneumonia, laryngitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma, mediastinal tumors. Persistent hiccups can also occur with a brain stroke, head injuries. There is also a possibility that a prolonged reflex indicates gastrointestinal disorders, pathologies of the cardiovascular system, metabolic disorders, or autoimmune diseases.

Only the attending physician can figure out the exact causes of incessant hiccups after a personal consultation, study of tests and examination results.

It is necessary to contact a specialist if:

• hiccups do not stop for a long time – last an hour or more;
• attacks are constantly repeated several times a day or during a week;
• in addition to hiccups, there are other unpleasant symptoms: heartburn, chest pain, shortness of breath, indigestion, cough, shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, restless sleep.

How do I deal with hiccups?

There is no one-size-fits-all, scientifically proven cure for hiccups that is guaranteed to work. But there are safe ways that can be useful at home.

1. Hold your breath: this will help increase the amount of carbon dioxide in the lungs, which will cause the diaphragm to relax.
2. Take a paper bag and try to breathe slowly by putting it to your mouth.
3. Bend over and take a few sips of cool water from a glass.
4. Hold a piece of lemon or lime in your mouth.

What processes in the body are indicated by hiccups, yawns and stretching?

What processes in the body signal hiccups, yawning and stretching?

Vitebsk News

Health

November 12, 2015

Views: 33238

Yawning

The reason for this is hypoxia, when the brain lacks oxygen. That is why we need not a simple, but a forced breath (strong and deep), during a yawn we inhale much more air than with a normal breath. The airways open up and a significant amount of oxygen quickly enters the bloodstream. Why do we yawn when we want to sleep or are tired? From fatigue, an excess of carbon dioxide accumulates in the tissues, the same hypoxia. We also yawn when we’re bored and need to do something we don’t feel like doing. So, we work “through I don’t want to”, we get tired much faster. And again – fatigue and yawning to get oxygen.

Why is it transmitted? Someone yawned – and everyone starts after him. Psychologists say that we inherited this reflex from our ancestors: everyone yawned, as if on command, from ancient times, when a tribe of primitive people went to bed at the same time. True, this is just a theory.

Sneeze

This is a defensive reaction. Dust accumulates in the nasal cavity, the mucosa dries, nerve endings are irritated, and a sneeze occurs – a sharp exhalation that helps to throw everything superfluous out of the nose so that no debris enters the nasopharynx further. By the way, the speed of exhaled air during a sneeze is 130 km per hour. If a person sneezes two or three times in a row, it’s okay. But if more than 10, then there is already a problem. Most likely, swelling on the nasal mucosa. The body perceives it as an irritant and tries to get rid of it. If you sneeze many times in a row, try vasoconstrictor drops, they will help relieve swelling.

Stretching

This is how the body prepares the muscles for physical activity. Have you followed cats? They never get up immediately after sleep, but first stretch with all their paws, restore blood circulation before taking a step. Sipping not only wakes you up in the morning. From fatigue, lactic acid accumulates in the muscles, and in order to disperse it, you need to stretch the muscles, just like after a workout.

Hiccups

Small children hiccup when they are cold, thirsty or overeaten. In adults, this is a signal that something is wrong in digestion. Most likely, a person ate too much, greedily and quickly, and poorly chewed large pieces irritate the vagus nerve, which runs from the brain along the pharynx and esophagus to the diaphragm and stomach. This nerve sends signals to the muscle fibers of the esophagus and stomach, causing spasms. With their help, the body, as during a sneeze, tries to get rid of the swelling of the esophageal mucosa.

How to beat hiccups? It depends on the reason. Drinking cold liquids in small sips will save you from “drunk” hiccups, holding your breath can help from hiccups due to overeating. Both the one and the other way inhibits irritation of the vagus nerve. But it’s definitely not worth scaring the hiccuping. This method of “treatment” is not approved by doctors.

Falling asleep, we shudder

It happens that, falling into a dream, we suddenly wake up abruptly, because the arms and legs twitch by themselves. This is fine. The fact is that breathing calms down, the pulse slows down, the muscles relax, and the body is afraid that we can fall asleep … completely. And with this very shudder, the brain wakes us up, makes us resume normal breathing so that it is not too rare. Here is such a constant control.

“Old fingers”

When we lie in the bath for a long time or wash something, the pads of the fingers become wrinkled. Children love to look at drawings on “old fingers”. It is believed that these patterns appear on the skin so that the fingers and toes in the water become more tenacious and do not slip. In fact, everything is much simpler. The skin on the balls of the fingers and heels is four times thicker than on other parts of the body. Therefore, it absorbs water better and swells.

Goosebumps

“Goosebumps” occurs when we are cold, but sometimes the music or the film is impressive “goosebumps”. Everything is explained simply, and again by the heritage of the ancients. They had thicker hair. And when our ancestors were cold or frightened, the hair on their body stood on end (for warmth, fluffiness and intimidation). The wool has fallen out over the centuries, so we, fortunately, got only goosebumps.

Let’s sweat

Sweating is a normal reaction to heat.