A sudden, involuntary contraction of the diaphragm followed by rapid closure of the vocal cords. Most attacks of hiccups last only a few minutes, and are not medically significant. Rarely, they may be due to a condition, such as pneumonia or pancreatitis, that causes irritation of the diaphragm or phrenic nerves. Chlorpromazine, haloperidol, or diazepam may be prescribed for frequent, prolonged attacks.
Hiccup |
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