Hiccups are caused by involuntary contractions of your diaphragm, which is the dome-shaped muscle in between your lungs and stomach. When the diaphragm is irritated, it can spasm and force you to suck in air into your throat. There, it hits your voice box and closes the vocal cords, creating the “hiccup” sound. Stress, nervousness/excitement, drinking too much alcohol or carbonated drinks or a sudden change in temperature can cause hiccups.
Hiccups are usually temporary, but in rare cases, they can be chronic. Chronic, long-term hiccups are often caused by damage to the diaphragm or a neurological disorder. One common prescription for chronic hiccups is baclofen, a muscle relaxant that is used to relieve spasticity and muscle stiffness. Cannabis could have similar properties to baclofen, and like baclofen can be useful in treating multiple sclerosis (MS). However, more evidence is needed.
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