Why do we Hiccup?

In the annals of medical oddities, Charles Osborne's story stands out as a testament to the bizarre nature of hiccups. It all began in 1922 when a hog unexpectedly fell on top of him, triggering a relentless bout of hiccups that would persist for an astonishing 68 years. This peculiar case has etched Osborne's name into the pages of the Guinness World Records, where he holds the esteemed title of the world record holder for hiccup longevity. A parallel hiccup saga unfolded in 2007 when Florida teenager Jennifer Mee achieved notoriety for possibly holding the record for the most frequent hiccups – an astounding 50 times per minute for over four weeks.

The intriguing question that arises is: What causes hiccups, and why do they persist for such prolonged durations in some cases? Medical experts assert that hiccups often result from stimuli that stretch the stomach, such as swallowing air, rapid eating, or drinking. Additionally, intense emotions, be they of joy, sorrow, anxiety, or excitement, can also serve as triggers for the diaphragm's involuntary contractions.

Delving into the mechanics of a hiccup, it commences with an abrupt spasm or contraction of the diaphragm, a large dome-shaped muscle below our lungs essential for inhaling air. This contraction is swiftly followed by the sudden closure of the vocal cords, creating the glottis. While the diaphragm's movement initiates a sudden intake of air, the closure of the vocal cords prevents it from reaching the lungs, producing the characteristic "hic" sound. Astonishingly, despite numerous attempts to unravel the mystery, the function of hiccups remains elusive, devoid of any discernible medical or physiological advantage.

Structures or mechanisms in the human body that lack apparent purposes pose challenges for evolutionary biologists. The phenomenon of hiccups has prompted scientists to ponder whether such quirks serve some hidden function yet to be uncovered or are mere remnants of our evolutionary past. One intriguing hypothesis suggests that hiccups might be relics of a time predating humans, originating during the transition of fish from gill-based ventilation to air-breathing with lungs.

This theory gains credence from the striking similarity between the neural patterning involved in generating hiccups and that responsible for respiration in amphibians. The premise is that hiccups may have evolved as an ancient reflex, facilitating an inhalation that could move water over gills, followed by a rapid closure of the glottis to prevent water from entering the lungs. This evolutionary hiccup, so to speak, might have persisted through the ages, offering a glimpse into our distant aquatic ancestry.

An alternative viewpoint posits that the hiccup reflex, retained in mammals, actually serves a purpose. Notably absent in birds, lizards, turtles, or any other exclusively air-breathing animals, true hiccups emerge in human babies long before birth and are more prevalent in infants than adults. Proponents of this perspective argue that the ancient hiccup reflex may have been adapted by mammals to aid in the process of nursing.

During nursing, the sudden expansion of the diaphragm could help expel air from the stomach, functioning as a sophisticated burp. Simultaneously, the closure of the glottis would act as a protective barrier, preventing milk from entering the lungs. This dual-purpose mechanism could have been evolutionarily advantageous for mammals, ensuring the safety of their offspring during the crucial nursing period.

Despite these intriguing evolutionary speculations, the practical aspects of dealing with hiccups often involve attempting various home remedies. Sipping continuously from a glass of cold water, holding one's breath, consuming a mouthful of honey or peanut butter, breathing into a paper bag, or inducing a sudden fright are among the strategies employed. However, despite these efforts, scientists have yet to definitively verify the efficacy of any particular cure.

One thing that scientists do know for certain is what doesn't work when it comes to stopping hiccups. The persistent and sometimes frustrating nature of hiccups, coupled with the lack of a foolproof remedy, adds an air of mystery to this seemingly innocuous bodily function.

In conclusion, the enigma of hiccups persists, defying easy explanation. As researchers continue to explore the origins and mechanisms behind this peculiar reflex, the saga of hiccups remains an intriguing chapter in the complex narrative of human physiology. Whether relics of our evolutionary past or adaptive reflexes, hiccups continue to captivate the curious minds of scientists and remain a source of both fascination and frustration for those who endure their unpredictable and often prolonged spells.