Hiccups are also referred to as hiccoughs or singultus. They are caused by a repeated involuntary spasm of the diaphragm, followed by sudden closure of the glottis, which checks the inflow of air and produces the characteristic sound.
Certain medications may lead to irritation of the nerves going to and from the diaphragm. Others, may lower the threshhold for abnormal firing of the neurons in the lower brainstem.
Causes of Hiccup Due To Medications
Hyperventilation during or following surgery may accentuate hiccups.
Medications that accelerate respiration lead to a lower carbon dioxide level. This stimulates or accentuates hiccups. Durgs that produce acidoses may be counteracted by hyperventilation and lower carbon dioxide levels.
Some medications may directly affect the lower brainstem or medulla oblongata. Changes int he excitability of certain nerve cells that subserve the diaphragm and respiration may trigger hiccups.
Medications may be interpreted as causing hiccups when underlying diseases, such as diaphragmatic pleurisy, pneumonia, uremia, alcoholism, or abdominal surgery may be the actual cause. In addition, other conditions associated with hiccups, such as disorders of the stomach and esophagus, bowel diseases, pancreatitis, pregnancy, bladder irritation, hepatic metastases, and hepatitis. Thoracic and mediastinal lesions or surgery may be responsible. Posterior fossa tumors or infarcts may stimulate centers in the medulla oblongata.
Signs and Symptoms of Hiccup Due To Medications
Hiccups produce a repetitive jerking of the diaphragm and temporary closure of the airway. A tyipical sound is produced.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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