Hiccups are repetitive, involuntary, short intakes of breath accompanied by a distinctive sound and caused by a sharp muscle contraction or spasm that is felt just below the sternum (breastbone).

Hiccups usually last only a few minutes, but very rarely they may last for days, weeks or even longer.

Hiccups are caused by involuntary spasms of the diaphragm, causing a short, involuntary intake of breath. The intake of breath is stopped by the epiglottis (the valve that prevents food being inhaled into the airways), which suddenly closes, producing the characteristic sound.

It is not known what causes the nervous system to trigger spasms in the diaphragm, and hiccups often start without any discernible trigger. When a trigger can be determined, hiccups are often related to factors that increase the pressure on the diaphragm, such as:

• Indigestion 
• Eating too quickly 
• Eating foods that are hot or spicy 
• Consumption of alcohol or carbonated beverages 
• Smoking 
• Stress 
• Being pregnant

Prolonged episodes of hiccups that last days, weeks or even longer, may be symptomatic of an underlying disease (e.g. thyroid disease, oesophagitis, brain damage, pleurisy), or a consequence of abdominal or chest surgery.

In addition, people taking certain drugs (e.g. anti-epileptic medicines, nicotine gum) are more prone to hiccups than others.

• Herbs that are traditionally used to relieve digestive upsets and aid the management of gastric symptoms such as pain, indigestion and flatulence include fennel and ginger. These herbs are traditionally used to help stimulate digestion and promote gastric secretions.
• Other herbs that are traditionally used to aid the management of digestive symptoms such as indigestion and heartburn include gentian, dandelion root and meadowsweet. For best results, it is recommended these herbs be taken in a liquid formula about 15 minutes prior to each meal.