What causes hiccups. How long do hiccups typically last. When should you be concerned about hiccups. What are effective treatments for persistent hiccups. Can hiccups be a sign of an underlying condition. How can you prevent hiccups from occurring.

Understanding the Mechanism Behind Hiccups

Hiccups are a common physiological phenomenon that most people experience from time to time. But what exactly causes these involuntary contractions? Hiccups occur when the diaphragm, a thin muscle separating the chest cavity from the abdomen, suddenly and involuntarily contracts. This rapid contraction causes a quick inhalation of air, which is then abruptly stopped by the closure of the glottis (the opening between the vocal cords), resulting in the characteristic “hic” sound.

The medical term for hiccups is “singultus”. While usually harmless and short-lived, hiccups can sometimes persist for longer periods, causing discomfort and concern.

Types of Hiccups Based on Duration

• Short-term hiccups: Last a few minutes to a few hours
• Persistent or protracted hiccups: Last more than 48 hours
• Intractable hiccups: Last longer than a month

Are persistent hiccups more common in certain demographics? Research indicates that while short-term hiccups affect men and women equally, persistent and intractable hiccups are more prevalent in men. Additionally, intractable hiccups are more commonly observed in adults.

Common Triggers for Short-Term Hiccups

Short-term hiccups often occur without any apparent reason. However, several factors have been identified as potential triggers:

• Consuming large amounts of alcohol
• Excessive smoking
• Eating or drinking too quickly, leading to a bloated stomach
• Sudden changes in room temperature
• Rapid changes in the temperature inside your stomach
• Shock or excitement
• Stress

Can carbonated beverages cause hiccups? While not mentioned in the original text, carbonated drinks are indeed a common trigger for hiccups in many people. The bubbles can cause the stomach to expand rapidly, potentially leading to diaphragm spasms.

Underlying Conditions Associated with Long-Lasting Hiccups

While most cases of hiccups resolve on their own, persistent or intractable hiccups can sometimes be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Some potential causes include:

Gastrointestinal Conditions

• Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Small bowel obstruction

Respiratory Conditions

• Asthma
• Pneumonia
• Pleurisy

Central Nervous System Disorders

• Stroke
• Brain tumors
• Encephalitis
• Traumatic brain injury

Conditions Affecting the Vagus Nerve

• Goitre
• Pharyngitis
• Meningitis

Metabolic Disorders

• Diabetes
• Hypoglycaemia
• Hyperglycaemia

Do all persistent hiccups have an identifiable cause? Interestingly, while a cause can be identified in about 80% of cases of persistent or intractable hiccups, the remaining 20% are often attributed to psychological factors or remain idiopathic (without a known cause).

The Role of Medications in Triggering Hiccups

In some cases, persistent hiccups can be a side effect of certain medications. One notable example is anesthesia, which is administered before surgical procedures. The connection between anesthesia and hiccups is not fully understood, but it’s thought to be related to the medication’s effects on the central nervous system and diaphragm function.

Other medications that have been associated with hiccups include:

• Steroids
• Benzodiazepines
• Barbiturates
• Some chemotherapy drugs

If you suspect that a medication is causing your hiccups, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment regimen.

Diagnosing the Cause of Persistent Hiccups

When hiccups persist for more than 48 hours, medical evaluation becomes necessary to identify any underlying causes. The diagnostic process may involve:

1. A thorough medical history
2. Physical examination
3. Blood tests to check for metabolic imbalances
4. Imaging studies such as chest X-rays or CT scans
5. Endoscopy to examine the upper digestive tract

How do doctors determine if hiccups are caused by a psychological factor? Psychological causes of hiccups are often diagnosed through a process of elimination. After ruling out physical causes, healthcare providers may consider psychological factors, especially if the patient has a history of anxiety, stress, or other mental health conditions.

Treatment Approaches for Persistent Hiccups

While most cases of short-term hiccups resolve on their own, persistent or intractable hiccups may require medical intervention. Treatment strategies can include:

Addressing Underlying Conditions

If an underlying medical condition is identified as the cause of hiccups, treating that condition is often the first step. For example, managing GORD with antacids or proton pump inhibitors may help resolve hiccups caused by acid reflux.

Medication

Several medications have shown efficacy in treating persistent hiccups:

• Baclofen: A muscle relaxant that can help reduce diaphragm contractions
• Chlorpromazine: An antipsychotic medication that can also help with hiccups
• Metoclopramide: A medication that improves gut motility and may help with hiccups

Nerve Stimulation Techniques

In some cases, techniques that stimulate the vagus nerve or phrenic nerve may be employed:

• Vagus nerve stimulation
• Phrenic nerve blocking

Are there any surgical options for treating intractable hiccups? In rare, severe cases that don’t respond to other treatments, surgical intervention may be considered. This could involve procedures to disable the phrenic nerve or implant a vagus nerve stimulator.

Self-Help Techniques for Managing Hiccups

While medical treatment may be necessary for persistent hiccups, there are several self-help techniques that people often use to try to stop short-term hiccups:

• Holding your breath for a short period
• Breathing into a paper bag
• Pulling your knees up to your chest and leaning forward
• Drinking a glass of cold water
• Swallowing a teaspoon of granulated sugar
• Biting on a lemon
• Using the Valsalva maneuver (attempting to exhale while keeping your mouth and nose closed)

Do these home remedies have scientific backing? While many of these techniques are based on anecdotal evidence, some do have potential physiological explanations. For example, holding your breath or breathing into a paper bag may increase carbon dioxide levels in the blood, which could help relax the diaphragm. However, more research is needed to definitively prove the effectiveness of these methods.

Preventing Hiccups: Lifestyle Modifications

While it’s not always possible to prevent hiccups, certain lifestyle modifications may help reduce their frequency:

• Eating and drinking slowly to avoid swallowing excess air
• Avoiding carbonated beverages
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Quitting smoking
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques
• Maintaining a healthy diet to prevent acid reflux

Can specific dietary changes help prevent hiccups? While not explicitly mentioned in the original text, some people find that avoiding spicy or acidic foods can help reduce the occurrence of hiccups, especially if they are prone to acid reflux.

The Impact of Persistent Hiccups on Quality of Life

While occasional hiccups are usually just a minor annoyance, persistent or intractable hiccups can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Some potential consequences include:

• Difficulty eating and drinking
• Sleep disturbances
• Speech interruptions
• Fatigue
• Anxiety or depression
• Social embarrassment

How can individuals cope with the psychological impact of persistent hiccups? Coping strategies may include seeking support from friends and family, joining support groups for people with chronic conditions, and considering counseling or therapy to manage the emotional toll of persistent symptoms.

Hiccups in Special Populations

While hiccups can affect anyone, certain populations may experience them differently or require special consideration:

Hiccups in Infants

Hiccups are common in babies and are usually not a cause for concern. They often occur during or after feeding. Most cases resolve on their own, but if hiccups are frequent or seem to cause distress, parents should consult a pediatrician.

Hiccups in Pregnancy

Pregnant women may experience more frequent hiccups due to changes in their digestive system and the growing uterus putting pressure on the diaphragm. While usually harmless, persistent hiccups during pregnancy should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Hiccups in the Elderly

Older adults may be more susceptible to persistent hiccups due to an increased likelihood of underlying health conditions or medication use. Careful evaluation is important in this population to identify and address any serious causes.

Are there any specific risks associated with hiccups in these special populations? While hiccups themselves are generally not dangerous, in certain cases they may mask or be confused with more serious symptoms. For example, in infants, frequent hiccups combined with spitting up might be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In pregnant women, persistent hiccups along with other symptoms could potentially indicate preeclampsia. Therefore, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider if there are concerns.

Current Research and Future Directions in Hiccup Management

While hiccups have been a part of human experience for millennia, there is still much to learn about their exact mechanisms and optimal treatments. Current areas of research include:

• Investigating the neurological pathways involved in hiccup production
• Developing more targeted medications for persistent hiccups
• Exploring the potential of neurostimulation techniques
• Studying the effectiveness of various complementary and alternative medicine approaches

What promising new treatments are on the horizon for intractable hiccups? While not mentioned in the original text, some emerging areas of research include the use of acupuncture for hiccup management and the development of devices that provide external diaphragm stimulation. These approaches are still in the early stages of study but may offer new options for those suffering from persistent hiccups in the future.

In conclusion, while hiccups are a common and usually benign occurrence, persistent cases can significantly impact quality of life and may signal underlying health issues. Understanding the causes, recognizing when to seek medical attention, and being aware of treatment options can help individuals manage this sometimes troublesome condition more effectively. As research continues, we can hope for even better understanding and more effective treatments for those suffering from chronic hiccups.

Hiccup – Healthily

What are hiccups?

Hiccups occur when the diaphragm suddenly and involuntarily contracts (tightens), resulting in a hiccup sound being produced at the top of the windpipe.

The medical name for hiccups is “singultus”.

The diaphragm is a thin membrane of muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdomen (tummy). It is underneath the ribcage and helps to control breathing.

Hiccups are a reflex action, which means that you do not have any control over them. Hiccups are not usually serious and in most cases only last a few minutes.

Long-lasting hiccups

In rare cases, hiccups can last for a long time. Hiccups that last more than 48 hours can be categorised into:

• persistent or protracted hiccups – a bout of hiccups that lasts for more than 48 hours
• intractable hiccups – a bout of hiccups that lasts longer than a month

Who gets hiccups?

Hiccups are common and most people will get them at some point during their life. They can affect people of any age, including babies. Men and women are equally affected by episodes of short-lived hiccups.

However, for reasons that are unclear, persistent and intractable hiccups are more common in men. Intractable hiccups are more common in adults. These types of hiccups can be tiring and upsetting, and can make eating and drinking difficult.

It is important to remember that persistent and intractable hiccups are rare and usually caused by another underlying health condition. In 80% of cases of persistent or intractable hiccups, a cause can be identified. The remaining 20% of cases usually have a psychological cause.

Read more about the causes of hiccups.

Treating hiccups

Most hiccups will pass quickly and usually only last a few minutes. Treatment is not usually required.

However, in cases of persistent or intractable hiccups that last longer than 48 hours, further investigations are needed to identify the cause and appropriate treatment.

Read more about how hiccups are diagnosed.

As well as treatment for underlying conditions, there are also self-help techniques that may help some people to stop common types of hiccups.

Read more information about treating hiccups.

Causes of hiccups

Hiccups occur when your diaphragm (the thin layer of muscle that separates your chest cavity from your abdomen) suddenly and involuntarily contracts (tightens).

As your diaphragm contracts, it causes you to breathe in air very quickly. The incoming air is stopped when your glottis (the opening between your vocal cords) closes suddenly, producing the characteristic sound of a hiccup.

Short-term hiccups

Most cases of hiccups occur for no apparent reason. Everyone experiences a short bout of hiccups from time to time. This is perfectly normal and nothing to be concerned about.

The most common causes of short-term hiccups are:

• consuming large amounts of alcohol
• excessive smoking
• a bloated stomach – usually as a result of eating or drinking too quickly
• a sudden change in room temperature
• a sudden change in the temperature inside your stomach

Sometimes, short-term hiccups may also occur as a result of:

• shock
• stress – the feeling of being under pressure
• excitement

See below for more information about psychological factors that can cause hiccups.

People experiencing short-term hiccups usually get better without the need for treatment.

Long-lasting hiccups

In rare cases, persistent and intractable hiccups can be caused by a more serious underlying condition, such as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) (see below). However, in other cases the cause of hiccups remains unknown (idiopathic).

Several conditions can cause hiccups. However, even with testing and investigation an underlying cause can sometimes not be identified.

Possible underlying conditions

Some of the conditions that can cause long-term hiccups include:

• gastrointestinal conditions – such as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)](yourmd:/condition/gastroesophageal-reflux-disease), [inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or a small bowel obstruction
• respiratory conditions – such as asthma, pneumonia](yourmd:/condition/pneumonia) or [pleurisy
• conditions affecting the central nervous system – such as stroke, a tumour affecting the brain, encephalitis or a traumatic brain injury
• a condition causing irritation of the vagus nerve (which could disrupt nerve signals in your body) – such as goitre, pharyngitis or meningitis
• a psychological reaction – such as shock, fear, grief, excitement, hysterical behaviour, anxiety or stress
• conditions affecting your metabolism (the way your body digests food) – such as diabetes](yourmd:/condition/diabetes/diabetes), hypoglycaemia or [hyperglycaemia

Medication

Persistent hiccups can sometimes be caused by a reaction to certain types of medication. For example:

• anaesthesia – medication given before a surgical operation or procedure that causes a loss of sensation
• corticosteroids – medication that reduces inflammation (swelling)
• benzodiazepines – a type of sedative that helps to reduce anxiety
• barbiturates – a type of sedative sometimes used to prevent seizures (fits)
• opioids – medication used to treat pain; morphine and methadone are both strong opioids
• methyldopa – medication used to treat high blood pressure

Possible complications

Prolonged hiccups can sometimes cause a number of complications. For example, in some cases it can lead to:

• insomnia
• weight loss, due to difficulty eating
• exhaustion
• depression

Visit your doctor or another healthcare professional if you have hiccups that have lasted longer than 48 hours and you are unsure about what is causing them.

Hiccups diagnosis

Hiccups that last for less than 48 hours and stop on their own do not require a diagnosis from your doctor.

Visit your doctor if you have had hiccups for longer than 48 hours. They will look at your medical history and may carry out a physical examination to try to establish the cause.

Physical examination

The aim of the physical examination is to try to find out what is causing your hiccups, such as identifying any underlying condition that may be contributing to the problem. Areas of your body your doctor may want to examine include:

• head and neck (including your mouth)
• chest
• abdomen (tummy)

Tests

If your doctor suspects your hiccups are due to another condition, they may refer you for tests such as:

Treatment for hiccups

Most cases of hiccups do not require medical treatment and will usually stop after a short period of time.

Self-care

However, there are steps you can try which may help to stop your hiccups. These include:

• slowly sipping ice-cold water
• holding your breath for a short period
• gently placing pressure on your nose while swallowing
• gently placing pressure on the diaphragm
• gargling with water
• biting on a lemon
• swallowing granulated sugar
• tasting vinegar
• breathing into a paper bag (never place a bag over your head)
• holding your breath for short periods
• pulling your knees up to your chest
• leaning forward to compress your chest

Treating underlying conditions

If an underlying health condition is causing your hiccups, treating it will help to resolve the problem. If your hiccups are persistent, or last longer than 48 hours (intractable), your doctor will investigate whether an underlying condition may be causing them.

Read more information about how hiccups are diagnosed.

Some conditions that cause persistent and intractable hiccups may need to be assessed and treated by a specialist. If this is the case, your doctor will refer you to the appropriate healthcare professional, who will carry out further investigations and recommend appropriate treatment.

Medication

If your hiccups last for 48 hours or more, and your doctor feels it appropriate, you may be prescribed medication. If your child has persistent or intractable hiccups, they will usually have to visit a specialist before being prescribed medication.

Medication for hiccups is often only used when other forms of treatment have failed or if no underlying cause can be found.

Some medicines that you may be prescribed for the treatment of long-term hiccups include:

• chlorpromazine
• haloperidol
• baclofen
• metoclopramide
• gabapentin

Your doctor will usually prescribe a two-week course of medicine for you and they may gradually increase the dosage until your hiccups are brought under control. The length of time you will need to take the medicine will depend on your individual circumstances, including:

• your age
• your general health
• the severity of your hiccups

All medicines can cause side effects. Therefore, before taking any, seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist about potential side effects you may experience.

What happens inside your body when you hiccup?

We’ve all been there at some point: stricken with hiccups at the worst time. In most cases, waiting a few minutes or trying a home remedy may do the trick. But what exactly causes them? Science has developed some theories, but hiccups remain a bit of a mystery. We do know that hiccups are involuntary contractions, or spasms, of the diaphragm. The diaphragm is the muscle that helps us breathe. When the diaphragm spasms, it causes air to rush into the lungs, which makes the vocal cords close suddenly. The “hic” sound is the result of the vocal cords rapidly snapping shut. A variety of things can trigger hiccups, including: Eating too fast or too much Drinking carbonated beverages or alcohol Sudden temperature changes Swallowing air when chewing gum Some medications, such as steroids, anesthetics, and drugs used to treat Parkinson’s disease or chemotherapy, can also prompt hiccups. Other possible causes include irritation or damage to the phrenic nerve, which controls the motion of the diaphragm, or the vagus nerve, which is connected to the larynx. Irritation may originate from a tumor in your neck, a sore throat, laryngitis, or even a hair in your ear touching your eardrum. While most times hiccups disappear within a few minutes, there are rare cases of chronic or persistent hiccups. If hiccups persist for more than 48 hours, see your doctor, as the condition may indicate there’s something more serious going on. Some underlying causes of chronic hiccups can include: Gastrointestinal diseases Kidney disorders Stroke Liver abnomalities Psychological issues like fear, hysteria, or shock While home remedies like holding your breath, sipping cold water, gargling with ice water, breathing into a paper bag, or just waiting them out can help alleviate short-term hiccups, treatment for chronic hiccups depends on the cause. Medications that may be prescribed to help chronic hiccups include: Muscle relaxants Sedatives Tranquilizers like chlorpromazine or haloperidol Anticonvulsants including phenytoin, valproic acid, and carbamazepine Pain medications In rare cases where medications are not effective, surgery may be recommended to temporarily or permanently block the phrenic nerve. The causes of hiccups can be as varied as the types of remedies suggested for relief. Understanding what your body is telling you and paying attention to its cues can help expedite your relief and may aid you in solving an underlying medical issue you never realized you had until you “hic!”-upped.

The woman who lets out at least one super squeaky hiccup every day

And she’s tried every old wive’s tale in the book.

When someone is described as “having a unique sound”, that usually means they have a distinguished singing voice.

But in Nat Aves’ case, it’s a reference to her hiccups.

The London social media manager has a trademark sound you don’t hear too often – unless you work with her.

Aves’ hiccups are a regular occurrence, meaning co-workers, family and friends are used to her sporadic squeaks.

“I usually just get one at a time randomly throughout the day, at least once a day,” she told 9Pickle.

“Sometimes I get a longer attack, up to five minutes of non-stop hiccupping, but this is rarer, about two or three times a month.”

(Storyful/Natalie Aves)

According to E Medicine Health, hiccups are “brief and involuntary contractions of the diaphragm muscle”.

WATCH MORE: Persian cat gives French bulldog relaxing back massage

The sound is caused by the muscle repeatedly contracting, which prompts the opening between the vocal chords to snap shut.

Generally, they’re not considered a serious physical ailment, which E Medicine Health says has “no clear reason for occurring”.

The site says swallowing large amounts of air could be linked to hiccups, which could occur if someone smokes or chews gum.

(Storyful/Natalie Aves)

“If a person eats too fast, he or she can swallow air along with food and end up with the hiccups,” the website says.

“Hiccups are sometimes thought to be a reflex to protect a person from choking.”

WebMD reckons they could be triggered by things like eating too quickly, spice foods, drinking alcohol, smoking, sudden temperature changes and intense feelings of fear, excitement or stress.

Because the best way to cope with stress is to make strange, involuntary sounds, right?

WATCH MORE: The time Stephen Hawking had a cocktail party for time travellers

Aves has been unable to trace the cause of her hiccups, which she has been experiencing since she was 12.

“I used to keep a diary to track my hiccups, recording what I ate, how I felt, what time it was,” she said.

“But there was no correlation between them and what was going on in my life.

“I’ve tried every old wives’ tale under the sun to try and stop them, nothing works. ”

(Storyful/Natalie Aves)

Yep, we reckon she’s heard the “spoonful of sugar on your mouth” thing, just in case you were wondering.

And yet, nothing has done any good.

WATCH MORE: Man dressed as Elsa from Frozen helps free police van

“I’ve been to at least four different doctors, none of them have been able to help me,” she said.

“The most recent doctor told me they are incurable.”

So there’s nothing else for it except to get used to them.

She started recording her hiccups and posted a compilation video on her Twitter account. 

Yep, girlfriend is embracing the weird.

“I used to be very embarrassed about them, sometimes awkward moments still crop up,” she told us.

“Sometimes I tell people about them beforehand, sometimes I just bring it up if it happens.

“My new workplace have been very understanding and don’t mind, my co-workers make me feel much less self-conscious about it, we all laugh. ”

Which hiccup remedies really work?

The moment you get hiccups, every person will immediately propose their own suggestion for the best way of getting rid of them, whether it’s holding your breath or frightening you. With so many different remedies to choose from, the question is: which are supported by scientific evidence?

When you hiccup there’s a spasm in the diaphragm which causes air to rush to the lungs. This makes the vocal chords suddenly close leading to the characteristic “hic” sound. More than 100 different medical conditions can cause hiccups, but in the vast majority of cases they are benign. They can also be prompted by medication; some anaesthetics, steroids, drugs for Parkinson’s Disease and chemotherapy for cancer can all lead to hiccups. But most of the time none of these causes apply. Laughing, drinking a lot of alcohol, eating too fast or gulping something fizzy can be a trigger or they can start spontaneously for no reason at all.

Some cases can be extreme. The world record for the longest bout is thought to be held by an US man called Charles Osborne. He began hiccupping in 1922, the story goes he was trying to weigh a hog at the time. He didn’t stop hiccupping until February 1990 – a total of 68 years.

Fortunately, most bouts of hiccups can be stopped with simpler measures. Still, opinion differs on the best approach.

Most home remedies are based on one of two mechanisms. In the first group are the methods that raise the levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood, inhibiting spasms of the diaphragm. These techniques include holding your breath or breathing into a paper bag. They can work sometimes, but researchers are unsure why. Some think it’s a way of distracting the body so that it worries about the build up of CO2 instead; others have proposed that hiccups may be caused by low levels of CO2 in the first place, and therefore high levels would inhibit the hiccups.

Nervous twitch

An alternative hiccup remedy is to do something that stimulates the vagus nerve that runs from the brain to the stomach, coordinating breathing and swallowing. This nerve is implicated in the hiccupping process, but you can disrupt the chain of events by stimulating the nerve so that it sends signals to the brain telling it to attend to this new sensation instead. This is where remedies such as gulping water, biting a lemon or eating crushed ice come in. Similarly, pulling the tip of your tongue, putting your fingers in your ears or gently pressing on your eyeballs can all stimulate the vagus nerve. Think of it as distracting the body from your hiccups by making something else dramatic happen to it. The same logic applies to giving someone a fright.

There is one more extreme remedy, but you might not want to try it at home. It was adopted by Francis Fesmire from the University Of Tennessee College of Medicine. The name of his paper published in 1988 gives you an idea of the technique: “Termination of intractable hiccups with digital rectal massage”. A man came to the emergency room complaining that he’d been hiccupping every two seconds for the previous three days.

After trying methods such as making him gag and compressing his eyeballs, the doctor recalled a case published the previous year in which a 71-year-old woman’s racing heartbeat had been slowed down by a doctor inserting a finger into her anus. He tried the same with the hiccupping patient and it worked. But when he collected the IgNobel prize for his discovery, Fesmire said he’d realised since then that an orgasm would have the same effect and might well be preferred by patients. Both these methods would again stimulate the vagus nerve.

It is true that most DIY remedies lack trial-based evidence. However, the mechanisms by which they might work do fit in with what’s known about hiccups physiologically and all these methods are considered harmless. None is foolproof, which might explain the existence of so many different remedies, but they’re not simply old wives’ tales. The next time you hiccup any of them is worth a try.  

You can hear more Medical Myths on Health Check on the BBC World Service.

Disclaimer

All content within this column is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. The BBC is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made by a user based on the content of this site. The BBC is not liable for the contents of any external internet sites listed, nor does it endorse any commercial product or service mentioned or advised on any of the sites. Always consult your own GP if you’re in any way concerned about your health.

Non-stop hiccups only clue to man’s heart attack

Hiccups are annoying, especially when they just won’t quit. If they last more than two days, nonstop hiccups may occasionally be a sign of a medical problem, as they were for one 68-year-old man.

In an extremely rare and highly unusual case, constant hiccups turned out to be the man’s only symptom of a heart attack. Cases like this are so few and far between that it was last known to occur more than 50 years ago.

The gentleman went to the emergency room because he had been hiccuping every 4 to 6 seconds for four days. No matter what he tried, his hiccups hadn’t let up, according to the case study in the January issue of the American Journal of Emergency Medicine.

The man had no other health complaints. His blood pressure was a little high and doctors did a chest X-ray to look for a possible tumor, but found none. So they gave him a muscle relaxant and another drug known to ease “singultus,” the medical term for hiccups.

Neither of the drugs helped the hiccups, but doctors assured him they would go away on their own.

Two days later, he was back in the emergency room still hiccuping. Since he was an older man with several risk factors for heart disease — diabetes, smoking, and high blood pressure — he was given an electrocardiogram (EKG), that showed several heart rhythm abnormalities. Blood tests revealed a high level of a protein released when the heart muscle has recently been damaged, confirming his diagnosis of a small heart attack.

There had been little reason for doctors to suspect a heart attack since the patient had no chest pain, no difficulty breathing, no discomfort, and no nausea, dizziness, or sweating — just constant hiccups. But as soon he was put on heart medications, his hiccups were gone.

Dr. Joshua Davenport, an emergency physician at St. Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital in New York City and the case study’s lead author says he honestly doesn’t know why the man had none of the traditional heart attack warning signs. “But many people, especially diabetics, can have unusual presentations for heart problems,” he explains.

Davenport is quick to point out that hiccups are not typically caused by something severe like a heart attack without a person having other concerning symptoms. “Our case was an exception and very rare,” he admits.

As for why a heart problem might have triggered hiccups, Davenport says that when the heart is not getting enough oxygen because less blood is flowing through a diseased artery, this can irritate the nerves of the diaphragm, the breathing muscle underneath the heart.

Hiccups are caused by a spasmodic contraction of the diaphragm, typically on the left side, says Dr. David Johnson, a professor of medicine at Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk. The more common reasons why nerves running to the diaphragm get irritated and cause hiccups are a distended stomach, drinking alcohol or lots of soda, chewing gum or smoking, explains Johnson, a past president of the American College of Gastroenterology.

From time to time, he’ll see cases of nonstop hiccups that may be triggered by acid reflux. Ongoing hiccups can also be due to a tumor in the head, neck, or lungs, or infections in the brain or ear, because nerves that go to the diaphragm may begin in the brain or neck.

The good news is that most hiccups don’t last long and are easy to treat. His favorite remedy? A spoonful of sugar.

What’s the worst case of hiccups you’ve ever had? What’d you do to get rid of them? Tell us on Facebook.

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Man’s Only Heart Attack Clue – Nonstop Hiccups

Hiccups can mean many things to many people.   Maybe you’ve had too much to drink, eaten something a bit too spicy or just can’t catch your breath. But one man’s hiccups served as a rare, important signal: He was having a heart attack.

A 68-year-old man came to the emergency room at St. Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital in New York City, telling doctors that he had been hiccupping for four days straight. The man was diabetic, a smoker and had high blood pressure, but doctors could find no signs of what might be causing his hiccups.

The medical team began to try to think outside the box, Dr. Josh Davenport, who treated the man in the emergency room, told ABC News. They gave the man a chest X-ray to look for a tumor in his lungs.

“Sometimes cancer can irritate the nerves running along the heart and diaphragm,” the muscle beneath the lungs that contracts forcefully and causes hiccups, Davenport said.

But the chest X-ray was normal. So doctors gave the man some muscle relaxers and sent him home.

“He had no other symptoms – no chest pain, no trouble breathing, no sweating or weakness, nothing like that. So we weren’t really concerned,” Davenport said.

Two days later, the man came back to the emergency room still hiccupping. One doctor, remembering a rare case from long ago of hiccups associated with heart attacks, recommended giving the man an electrocardiogram to check his heart.

Bingo. The rhythm of the patient’s heart beats were abnormal and other lab tests showed that his blood had high levels of a protein that the heart’s cells release when they have been damaged.

“That’s how we determined he was having a heart attack,” Davenport said.

Doctors gave the patient drugs to treat the heart attack and soon after, his hiccups were gone. He was treated and released from the hospital.

Davenport, who wrote a report on the case published in the American Journal of Emergency Medicine, emphasized that this case is extremely rare. Hiccups are almost never a sign of a heart attack, cancer or any other medical problem.

According to the Mayo Clinic, hiccups usually come from eating too much, drinking carbonated beverages or too much alcohol, excitement or emotional stress. Longer lasting hiccups may start because of laryngitis, acid reflux or a tumor in the neck.

Scientists still don’t know exactly why we hiccup, and unfortunately, no scientific answer exists for the best way to get rid of them.

“Usually, it’s just something that has to go away on its own,” Davenport said.

How Do You Get Rid Of Hiccups?

You’ve just hiccuped for what seems like the 100^th time. You start to WONDER if they will ever stop. More importantly, you WONDER what you can do to make the hiccups stop.

Before we explore the cure for hiccups, let’s find out what a hiccup really is.

When it comes to hiccups, the diaphragm is the culprit. The diaphragm is a dome-shaped muscle at the bottom of your chest.

Normally the diaphragm works perfectly. As you inhale, it pulls down, helping your body draw air into your lungs. When you exhale, it moves up to force air out of the lungs.

Your diaphragm works hard day and night, and most of the time it goes unnoticed — at least until you are struck with a case of hiccups.

When the diaphragm becomes irritated, it jerks downward, causing you to suddenly draw air into your throat. The abrupt rush of air causes your vocal cords to close, causing a hiccup sound.

There are several things that irritate the diaphragm, including laughing too hard, drinking carbonated beverages, and eating or drinking too quickly or too much. Hiccups can also be a side effect of some prescription medicines.

In rare instances, hiccups can last for days or weeks. An American man named Charles Osborne had hiccups from 1920 to 1992. Charles’ 72 years of hiccups earned him a place in the Guinness Book of World Records.

Another strange case of hiccups occurred when a man named Christopher Sands had hiccups for almost three years. Eventually doctors discovered Christopher had a tumor in the part of his brain responsible for muscle activity. Once the tumor was removed, Christopher’s hiccups disappeared.

So now that you have hiccups, what can you do to put an end to them?

The unfortunate truth is this: there is no one definite way to cure hiccups. Fortunately, there are a lot of suggestions on how to try. Here are a few things you might try the next time you get the hiccups:

• Hold your breath.
• Put a pinch of sugar under your tongue.
• Ask someone to scare you.
• Gargle with ice water.
• Pull out your tongue (this supposedly stimulates the “vagus nerve” and stops spasms of the diaphragm).
• Breathe into a paper bag.

Standards:

CCRA.L.3, CCRA.L.6, CCRA.R.1, CCRA.R.2, CCRA.R.4, CCRA.R.10, CCRA.SL.1

Ikal three years – Gazeta.Ru

Briton Chris Sands, who hiccuped continuously for three years, underwent an operation to remove a brain tumor, which, according to doctors, was the cause of the disease, the BBC broadcasts.

Lincoln Musician Sands, 26, began hiccuping in December 2006. Since then, the hiccups did not stop, giving the young man a lot of inconvenience – he could not sleep normally, eat and continue his musical career.

The doctors speculated that the hiccups were caused by a malfunction of a valve that could not normally regulate acid levels in the young man’s stomach.

However, in August 2009, Sands was invited to a Japanese talk show, where a medical examination revealed that the Briton had a brain tumor, RIA Novosti reports.

At the same time, it is not yet clear whether the fatal tumor was the cause or the consequence of constant hiccups. In any case, the doctors removed 60% of the tumor, and Sands got rid of the disease and now feels well.

“I always thought there was even something funny about my hiccuping for so long. Even when I was diagnosed with a tumor in the hospital, I could still make fun of myself and my hiccups.This whole comedic situation really pleased me, ”said the Briton, who finally stopped hiccuping.

It is not uncommon for people to hiccup for extended periods of time. The record belongs to the American Charles Osborne, who, while cutting pork carcasses in 1922, suddenly lost consciousness, and when he woke up, he began to experience constant bouts of hiccups, which stopped only 68 (!) Years later.

Three years ago, 15-year-old girl Jennifer Mee from Florida, who hiccupped for 38 days in a row, stopped hiccuping with the arrival of spring, exactly on March 1.She began to hiccup with a frequency of about 50 times per minute on January 23, she stopped going to school and stopped sleeping peacefully. Doctors have not been able to determine the cause of the voluntary contraction of the girl’s diaphragm. The girl talked about her problem on February 16, since then thousands of well-wishers have sent her advice on how to fight hiccups until her torment ended by itself.

90,000 How to Get Rid of Hiccups Quickly: 8 Proven Ways

For some people, there is nothing more annoying than incessant hiccups. There are many options for how to get rid of this unpleasant phenomenon. Some of them are effective, while others do not always bring the desired relief. Svetlana Dyatlova, a therapist of one of the capital’s medical centers, told the correspondent of the Minsk-Novosti agency about the most effective ways to get rid of hiccups.

– The main trick is to relax the vagus nerve, the compression of which, for one reason or another, causes hiccups, – says the interlocutor.

So, we offer you eight ways that will help you quickly cope with this scourge.

1. Honey or lemon

Swallow a teaspoon of honey to increase salivation. And when a person swallows saliva, the diaphragm contracts, and the hiccups quickly pass. If the sweet doesn’t work, then you can try something sour, such as a lemon wedge.

2. Place your fingers behind your ears

For 30 seconds, use your fingertips to press lightly on the cavity behind the ears. The pressure at this point causes the diaphragm to relax, which stops the hiccups.

3. Hold your breath

Hold your breath for as long as possible. Just don’t make yourself dizzy!

4. Stick out your tongue

Stick out your tongue as far as possible. This will help stop the diaphragm cramps causing hiccups .

5. Drink a glass of water

Quickly drink a glass of water in small sips.Rhythmic contractions of the esophagus will eliminate the spasms and the hiccups will stop.

6 . Breathe into paper bag

Breathing into a paper bag will increase the level of carbon dioxide in your blood. The brain will take this as a sign of suffocation, which will cause you to take deeper breaths. This, in turn, will stop the cramps in the diaphragm, which will stop the hiccups.

7. Press on the palate

Pressure on the soft part of the palate, as close to the throat as possible, will irritate that area, causing the diaphragm to contract. The hiccups will stop pretty quickly.

8. Take a cold bath or shower

If all of the above doesn’t work, it’s time to shock your body with a cold shower. The sudden change in temperature will cause a disturbance in the breathing rate, and the hiccups will go away. Again, you should not plunge into the hole, proceed from your own capabilities.

– There are many more ways to get rid of hiccups. I do not recommend resorting to extreme, such as scaring a person.And often this phenomenon goes away on its own within 20-30 minutes, – summed up S. Dyatlova.

On November 8, rain is expected in most of the country, with sleet in the afternoon in the northern half, the correspondent of the Minsk-Novosti agency reports with reference to the website of the Republican Center for Hydrometeorology, Radioactive Pollution Control and Environmental Monitoring.

At the beginning of the coming week it will be cloudy with clearings. In addition to precipitation, an increase in wind is expected. Its gusts in the morning and afternoon on Monday in many areas will reach 15-18 m / s.

The air temperature during the next day will be + 3 … + 8 ° C, in the daytime in the south – up to +10 ° C. In particular, in Brest and Gomel it is predicted + 7 … + 9 ° C, in Grodno, Minsk and Mogilev – + 6 … + 8 ° C, in Vitebsk it will be + 5 … + 7 ° C.

Read also:

Orange level of danger due to wind was announced in Belarus on November 8. What are the recommendations given by the Ministry of Emergency Situations

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Published: 07.11.2021

On November 8, rain is expected in most of the country in Belarus, with sleet in the afternoon in the northern half, the correspondent of the Minsk-Novosti agency reports with reference to the website of the Republican Center for Hydrometeorology, Radioactive Pollution Control and Environmental Monitoring.

Energy Minister Viktor Karankevich told about the amount of electricity generated by the first power unit of the BelNPP after being included in the unified energy system in November last year on the air of the Belarus 1 TV channel, the correspondent of the Minsk-Novosti agency reports.

Photo by BelTA

According to the minister, the volume of electricity produced amounted to 4. 6 billion kWh, which made it possible to replace about 1.3 billion cubic meters. m of natural gas. Every day, the Belarusian NPP generates 28 million kWh of electricity, which is about 25% of the total volume of its production in the republic.

V. Karankevich added that after the commissioning of the second power unit, or the station as a whole (it is planned to do this in 2022), the total volume of electricity production will be about 18.5 billion kWh per year with a facility operation life of 60 years from the possibility of increasing it to 100 years, taking into account the existing practice of extending the operation of reactor facilities.

The Minister noted that electricity consumption is growing in the country: over nine months, the increase amounted to 1.95 billion kWh. The main share (1.12 billion kWh) falls on industrial enterprises – this is both the commissioning of new production facilities and the loading of existing capacities. Approximately 630 million kWh is consumption in the energy system, primarily the production of heat energy on electric boilers for heating large settlements. About 200 million kWh is an increase in population. In particular, this is the ongoing construction of a new multi-apartment housing stock, which provides for the use of electric energy for heating.

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Published: 07.11.2021

Energy Minister Viktor Karankevich told about the amount of electricity generated by the first power unit of the BelNPP after being included in the unified energy system in November last year on the air of the Belarus 1 TV channel, the correspondent of the Minsk-Novosti agency reports.

A car hit a 12-year-old boy on the street.Yesenin on November 7. The correspondent of the agency “Minsk-Novosti” informs about this on the Telegram channel of the UGAI GUVD of the Minsk city executive committee.

According to the preliminary information of the senior inspector for agitation and propaganda of the OGAI of the Moskovsky District Department of Internal Affairs Lyubov Trepashko, at about 16:50 the driver of the Mitsubishi car was moving along the street. Yesenin from the side of Dzerzhinsky ave. In the direction of st. Cosmonauts in the second lane. When passing the intersection of st. Yesenin – st. Slobodskaya, at the permitting (green) traffic light signal, a motorist hit a minor who was crossing the roadway.

As a result of an accident, the boy with injuries was taken to a medical facility. Checking in progress.

Photos and videos of the traffic police in Minsk

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Published: 07.11.2021

A car hit a 12-year-old boy on the street. Yesenin on November 7. The correspondent of the agency “Minsk-Novosti” informs about this on the Telegram channel of the UGAI GUVD of the Minsk city executive committee.

A batch of vaccine and syringes will be delivered by plane to Belarus from China. The commander of the 50th mixed air base of the Air Force and Air Defense Forces of the Armed Forces of Belarus Andrei Lukyanovich told about it on the air of STV, the correspondent of the agency “Minsk-Novosti” reports.

The photo is illustrative, pixabay.com

According to A. Lukyanovich, on November 9, a flight is planned for the next batch of vaccine (2.6 million doses) and for more than 1 million syringes.The cargo weighing 28 tons will be brought from China. The flight there takes more than nine hours and will take the Machulishchi – Beijing route, and return via Novosibirsk (Russia) with refueling.

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Published: 07. 11.2021

A batch of vaccines and syringes will be delivered by plane to Belarus from China. The commander of the 50th mixed air base of the Air Force and Air Defense Forces of the Armed Forces of Belarus Andrei Lukyanovich told about it on the air of STV, the correspondent of the agency “Minsk-Novosti” reports.

Head coach of the Belarusian freestyle wrestling team Ivan Yankovsky told the correspondent of the newspaper “Minsk Courier” about his performance at the Olympic Games in Tokyo and preparations for the Games-2024.

About selection for the Games

– Freestyle wrestlers did not win licenses at the 2019 World Championships. The last chances were in two qualifying tournaments. Did this add to the nervousness?

– No.The coaching staff did not escalate the situation, but tried to liberate the wards. The athletes were well aware of what was at stake. They had a desire to get to the Olympics. Fortunately, everything worked out. Already at the first licensed tournament, they won three passes in Tokyo.

– Was it easy to form the squad for these competitions?

– Perhaps, our athletes are equal in level in the weight category up to 74 kg, where Magomedhabib Kadimagomedov and Azamat Nurikov, as well as Ali Shabanov and Rasul Tikhaev in 86 kg compete.There is no such competition in other scales. According to the plan, the wrestlers were prepared for the qualifying tournaments. Each of the guys has rich international experience, they know how to mentally fail themselves, how to achieve success. The national championship was held before the tournaments. Young wrestlers presented surprises, but at international tournaments there is a completely different nerve and level. Therefore, they could not rely on a non-fired boy.

– Encouraged by the results of the first qualifier?

– With pleasure I watched the quality wrestling of the guys. After all, before that we did not really have international competitions. For almost the entire 2020, they trained in their native walls. Shortly before the tournament, I managed to go to the training camp in Turkey. So the homework has borne fruit. Of course, we were glad about three licenses. But experienced Vladislav Andreev, Nyurgun Scriabin, Magomedkhabib Kadimagomedov were left without a pass. They also performed well in competitions, but the athletes did not have enough. Yes, Kadimagomedov rehabilitated himself in the second qualifying tournament.

– Are four licenses a ceiling?

– Could win licenses in all six categories.In the second tournament, Andreev lost to an experienced Cuban in an equal duel. I think the refereeing in competitions with the participation of Scriabin was controversial: the Belarusian puts the opponent on his shoulder blades, and the referee blows the whistle and raises the wrestlers in a standing position. This is nonsense. It is clear that not everything always goes smoothly. But four licenses is a good result.

About performance at the Olympics

– Did you prepare for the Games in Belarus?

– Yes. Nobody rushed the guys, did not remember the importance of the upcoming competitions.Our sport is licensed per country. The question of who would go to Tokyo was not raised. In case of force majeure, we also prepared the second numbers in those scales where we won licenses.

– Which guy was the most nervous before the Olympics?

– Everyone was collected, concentrated, did not notice unnecessary emotions behind them. Perhaps Denis Khromenkov could not cope with the psychological stress, excitement during the struggle at the Olympics. From a great desire, he made as many mistakes as he had not made in competitions during the year.The rest worked more coolly.

– How were the empty stands at the Olympics perceived?

– We previously fought without spectators at major tournaments and imagined what it was. Nevertheless, it was boring in Tokyo without fans. It turned out to be in the hands of some, but some did not have enough emotions and support. Although the athletes understood that relatives, friends and relatives were watching their performance at home. Perhaps some wanted noise and applause when they stood on the pedestal.But they had a cherished medal around their necks. And this is the most important thing. Later, we talked to experienced athletes and coaches about spectators, and everyone said that Tokyo had one of the most boring Olympics. Everyone sat by their numbers, besides, they did not see the city itself. Only from the window of the bus that transported us from point A to point B.

– Weren’t you planning to send Kadimagomedov to the World Championship, which took place a month and a half after the Games?

– Magomedhabib was traveling to Tokyo with an ankle injury.Fortunately, this did not prevent him from successfully working out. Upon returning to Minsk, the injury still worried him. The wrestler took a break to tackle his recovery. The season has already turned out to be difficult for him.

About Paris-2024

– Until the next Olympics, there are not 4, but 3 years left for preparation. Is this a plus or a minus?

– I cannot answer whether this is good or bad. Everyone found themselves in such conditions, and we are adjusting to them. Young people? We always bring talented guys to the training camp with the national team.Due to the pandemic, almost no tournaments were held, and for young athletes this alignment is bad. In training, the guys add in skill, but in competitions it happens much faster. Even losses bring a lot of food for thought. Competitions can be compared to an exam: I didn’t pass it the first time, which means that something needs to be corrected and tried from the second. Of course, coaches need to work with young people and create conditions. But the guys themselves must move towards the goal.

– Are you planning to change the rules of the fight in the near future?

– It seems not.If this happened, the recent World Championship in Oslo would have been held in a new format. The previous weight categories also remained. I like the current rules. True, I would suggest returning to the old weigh-in format – not in the morning before the competition, as it is now, but the night before.

– Soon it will be 2 years since you were appointed head coach of the Belarusian national team …

– Now I clearly understand how all the processes are going. Yes, it took some time to adapt.The team is growing, and so am I. Thanks also to the coaching staff. While it turns out, it is advisable to continue in the same spirit. I would like everything to be back on track as soon as possible, which was before the pandemic, when teams could come to each other for training camps and competitions without any problems. My fellow wrestling coaches from all countries will agree with this.

Reference

When he was an athlete, Ivan Yankovsky won the European Championship three times (2012, 2014, 2016) and once won silver at the World Championship (2018).He became the head coach at the age of 32, and came to wrestling at the age of 7.

Photo of the National Olympic Committee of Belarus

Published: 07.11.2021

The head coach of the Belarusian freestyle wrestling team Ivan Yankovsky told the correspondent of the Minsk Courier newspaper about his performance at the Tokyo Olympics and preparations for the 2024 Games.

State Secretary of the Union State Dmitry Mezentsev said on the air of the Belarus 1 TV channel that the economies of Belarus and Russia will become stronger, but one should not expect an immediate effect after the signing of the union programs, the correspondent of the Minsk-Novosti agency reports.

According to D. Mezentsev, if the parties are together, then their economies are more competitive, and their products enter a larger number of international, regional markets.

– Our rapprochement is a confirmation that we will not act on any command. We must all live as our peoples believe, as we are accustomed to within the framework of our Slavic and spiritual tradition , – added the Secretary of State of the Union State.

He noted that 28 union programs do not relate to the political issue: there is no threat to the sovereignty, independence of Belarus, or any other political institutions within the system of government in the republic.

D. Mezentsev believes that an immediate effect cannot be expected after signing these programs. According to him, this is work for the coming years. It is necessary to form a mechanism for interaction between ministries and departments for the sake of a new practice, which will allow for a different involvement of real industries in the supply of products to the huge Russian market.

– Today, in fact, the unification in the areas of economic potential allows Belarus to feel more stable and confident.Taking into account the pressure of sanctions, this will prevent people from feeling a loss in their wallets, the income of their families 90,026, – D. Mezentsev explained.

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Published: 07.11.2021

State Secretary of the Union State Dmitry Mezentsev said on the air of the Belarus 1 TV channel that the economies of Belarus and Russia will become stronger, but one should not expect an instant effect after the signing of the union programs, the correspondent of the Minsk-Novosti agency reports.

At the border of Belarus with Latvia, Lithuania and Poland on the evening of November 7, a total of more than 1,890 trucks are expected to leave, the correspondent of the agency “Minsk-Novosti” reports, citing data from the website of the State Civil Code.

Photo by BelTA

Most trucks at the road checkpoints at 18:00 were recorded in the Lithuanian direction: Vidzy – more than 90 such vehicles, Kotlovka – 170, Kamenny Log – 360, Benyakoni and Privalka – by 260.

At the same time, more than 240 trucks await entry into Poland in front of the Bruzgi checkpoint, 160 trucks for Berestovitsa, and 150 for Kozlovichi.

Less heavy trucks have accumulated in the Latvian direction: “Grigorovshchina” and “Urabany” – 100 units of such equipment each.

On November 5, the State Border Committee of Belarus noted a decrease in the number of freight vehicles awaiting entry into the EU by 5% since the beginning of the week.

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Published: 07.11.2021

At the border of Belarus with Latvia, Lithuania and Poland on the evening of November 7, a total of more than 1,890 trucks are expected to leave, the correspondent of the Minsk-Novosti agency reports, citing data from the site of the State Civil Code.

In the capital of Tatarstan, the Belarusian athlete Ilya Shimanovich won the gold medal of the European Short Course Swimming Championships in the 50 m breaststroke, the Minsk-Novosti correspondent reports with reference to ONT.

Photo by BelTA

In the final at this distance I. Šimanovich showed a time of 25.25 seconds, improving it in comparison with that shown in qualifying (25.53 seconds) and in the semifinals (25.43 seconds).

This is the third medal of this continental championship in the swimmer’s asset: earlier I. Shimanovich won gold at a distance of 200 m breaststroke and silver at a hundred meters in the same style.

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Published: 07. 11.2021

In the capital of Tatarstan, Belarusian athlete Ilya Shimanovich won the gold medal of the European Short Course Swimming Championships in the 50 m breaststroke, the Minsk-Novosti correspondent reports with reference to ONT.

The crew of two Mi-8 helicopters of the Aviation Ministry of Emergency Situations of Belarus returned from extinguishing forest fires in Turkey. The specialists, who were welcomed by the Minister of Emergency Situations Vadim Sinyavsky and the staff of the institution, were also met by relatives and friends.This was reported to the correspondent of the agency “Minsk-Novosti” in the press service of the Ministry of Emergency Situations.

In 2021, EMERCOM aviators on two Mi-8s and a Mi-26 helicopter (it returned at the end of September) flew 287 flights (the total flight time exceeded 450 hours), carrying out more than 1.5 thousand water drains on the fires and delivering to them places for 740 groups of rescuers.

V. Sinyavsky noted that the Turkish side, expressing gratitude to the Belarusian crews, points to their heroism and skill.They made a huge contribution not only to the preservation of forests, but also to saving the lives and property of the local population.

Photos and videos of the Ministry of Emergency Situations

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Published: 07. 11.2021

The crew of two Mi-8 helicopters of the Aviation Ministry of Emergency Situations of Belarus returned from extinguishing forest fires in Turkey. The specialists, who were welcomed by the Minister of Emergency Situations Vadim Sinyavsky and the staff of the institution, were also met by relatives and friends.This was reported to the correspondent of the agency “Minsk-Novosti” in the press service of the Ministry of Emergency Situations.

In the next round of the Russian Superleague in volleyball among women’s teams, “Minskanka” was defeated by the Kaliningrad “Lokomotiv” 0: 3, the correspondent of the “Minsk-Novosti” agency reports.

Lokomotiv is the reigning champion of the tournament. The team is going without losses this season: five wins in five matches. Moreover, in these meetings, the rivals were able to beat the team from Kaliningrad only one set (Dynamo Moscow – 1: 3).All other fights Andrey Voronkov’s charges won 3: 0. In the first two matches of the tournament, FC Minsk lost, and then won two victories, settling in 9th position.

The start of the meeting in Minsk turned out to be promising for the hostesses. Stanislav Salikov’s team took the lead – 4: 1, 9: 1, 12: 3. However, the guests gradually came to their senses and began to reduce the difference in the account. It seemed that with all the activity, the club from Sineokoy would still win the set. However, in the end, the players of the Belarusian club started having problems at the reception and Lokomotiv snatched the victory 26:24.

In the next game “Minskanka” failed to impose a serious struggle on the opponents. The visiting team scored a lot of points on the block. Volleyball players from Kaliningrad confidently won – 25:14. In the third set, Salikov’s wards were less likely to make mistakes, due to which they were on a par with their counterparts for most of the game. In the end, Lokomotiv played very powerfully and confidently, snatching the victory 25:21.

In the next round of the Superleague, “Minchanka” will fight on the road with Moscow “Dynamo”. This will happen on November 12th.And in four days Salikov’s wards will play at home in the CEB Cup against the French “Le Cannet”.

Photo vcminsk.com

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Published: 07.11.2021

In the next round of the Russian Superleague in volleyball among women’s teams, “Minskanka” was defeated by the Kaliningrad “Lokomotiv” 0: 3, the correspondent of the “Minsk-Novosti” agency reports.

90,000 worth worrying about? ” – Yandex.Qu

Yulia Nesterova, editor

Hiccup is fun if it starts and ends in a few minutes while others share different amazing ways to deal with it. But hiccuping for several hours, or even days in a row, no longer seems funny at all. In this case, we are talking about pathology, a condition with which the body cannot cope, which means that the help of doctors is required. MedAboutMe figured out what could be the cause of hiccups and when to see a doctor.

Why do you need a diaphragm?

Between the chest cavity and the abdominal cavity there is a septum that separates them – the diaphragm. This is, in fact, the muscle that we need for breathing. In a relaxed state, it is largely convex upward, the volume of the chest cavity is reduced, the lungs are compressed, in a tense state, it is reduced, due to which the volume of the chest cavity increases, and the lungs expand. That is, when the diaphragm is strained, air enters the lungs (inhalation), when relaxed, it leaves them (exhalation).

This is not the only function of the aperture. At the moment of inhalation, the heart bag and the adjacent part of the superior vena cava expand. But when the diaphragm contracts, increasing the volume of the chest cavity, while the volume of the abdominal cavity decreases, intra-abdominal pressure increases, due to which blood from the liver is squeezed into the inferior vena cava and, as a result, venous blood enters the right atrium.

Finally, the diaphragm, at the same time, rhythmically contracting and relaxing, promotes the movement of eaten food along the esophagus (in fact, it is esophageal pulp), and also maintains the activity of the stomach.

The diaphragm is innervated by the vagus and phrenic nerves, as well as by the nerves of the sympathetic nervous system.

What is hiccups?

Hiccups are a spasmodic contraction of the diaphragm. In this case, there is a convulsive breath, as it were, milliseconds long. Due to the fact that the glottis in the larynx is narrowed or closed at this moment, we hear hiccups – and at the same time the glottis closes. From diaphragm spasm to hiccup sound – 0.035 seconds.This cannot be called breathing, since in such a short time the body does not have time to get any air.

Despite the existence of different versions about the benefits of hiccups, it was not possible to prove it. The idea of ​​the center of hiccups in the brain, which is necessary to protect the respiratory tract from overeating, has not been confirmed either. Still, most scientists are inclined to think that hiccups are a signal of some problems, which may be short-term:

• During pregnancy in the last trimester, the uterus presses on the stomach, which, in turn, presses on the diaphragm
• So, with a hasty meal (especially fatty foods) or drinking in large quantities, and even swallowing air due to haste, the phrenic nerve is irritated, which leads to hiccups.
• Too hot, too spicy food, alcohol in large quantities also irritate the phrenic nerve, which is “well” located next to the esophagus.
• Gases in the stomach with flatulence also act on the same nerve. And they can accumulate there when consuming carbonated drinks, chewing gum and cracking hard candy.
• Strong emotions, stress, and certain medications (barbiturates, corticosteroids, benzodiazepines, etc.) can also cause hiccups.

The hiccup rate is typically 4 to 60 times per minute. Most often, hiccups start unexpectedly and end so unpredictably. Prolonged hiccups (more than 2 days) and intractable (more than a month) are usually caused by some kind of disease. In 91% of cases, men suffer from irresistible hiccups, most often over the age of 50.

The longest hiccups in the world are recorded in the Guinness Book of Records. Charles Osborne, an Iowa farmer, hiccupped continuously for 69 years and 4 months.

Diseases associated with chronic hiccups

• Nervous system pathologies

Any diseases of the central nervous system – traumatic brain injury, brain tumor, stroke, encephalitis, etc. , as well as conditions potentially irritating the vagus nerve – meningitis, pharyngitis, goiter, etc.

• Mental disorders

The French doctor P. Briquet described a hysterical spasm of the diaphragm – while the patient developed not only incessant hiccups, but also shortness of breath, as well as loss of voice.In principle, strong emotions can also lead to hiccups – stress, grief, intense excitement, anxiety.

• Respiratory tract diseases

Inflammation of the lungs can irritate the nerve pathways around the chest and diaphragm, resulting in hiccups. A similar situation is observed with pleurisy, asthma. Doctors describe a case of hiccups with pulmonary embolism.

• Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

This list includes gastroesophageal reflux disease, small bowel obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease.Hiccups can develop against the background of kidney and liver diseases – the enlarging organ presses on the diaphragm, causing irritation of the corresponding nerves.

• Endocrinological disorders

Hyper- and hypoglycemia, as well as diabetes itself.

There is a known case of hiccups due to a rather rare disease – arthritis of the sternoclavicular joint, as well as hiccups due to an ant that climbed into the ear. The situation of hiccups due to epidural anesthesia is described.

Examination by a doctor

It is believed that up to 48 hours you can hiccup and rely only on your own strength.But if it hiccups longer, you have to go to the doctor. During the examination, blood tests (checking for inflammation, kidney disease and diabetes), x-rays, CT scans, MRIs to check the presence or absence of anatomical features in the patient, endoscopy to check the functionality of the esophagus and trachea, and an electrocardiogram may be needed.

The easiest ways to deal with hiccups

• Taking a paper bag and breathing into it – the level of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood will increase, and this should reduce the spasm of the diaphragm.