Concern about recurring hiccups

Ask the doctor

Q. I have hiccups on a regular basis, and sometimes they last a long time. Should I be worried?

A. Hiccups, known by the medical term singultus, rarely signal an underlying serious condition. A hiccup comes from a strong, involuntary contraction in the diaphragm, which is the muscle below your lungs. Many everyday situations can trigger this spasm, including distention of the stomach (which can be the result of overeating), swallowing air, or drinking carbonated beverages.