Definition for Hiccup
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Revision as of 19:19, 3 February 2014 by Padre (Talk | contribs) (Created page with "A hiccup is an involuntary contraction of the diaphragm that may repeat several times per minute. In medicine it is known as synchronous diaphragmatic flutter, or singultus, Lati...")
A hiccup is an involuntary contraction of the diaphragm that may repeat several times per minute. In medicine it is known as synchronous diaphragmatic flutter, or singultus, Latin for the act of catching one's breath while sobbing. The hiccup is an involuntary action involving a reflex arc. Once triggered, the reflex causes a strong contraction of the diaphragm followed about 0.25 seconds later by closure of the vocal cords, which results in the classic "hic" sound. At the same time, the normal peristalsis of the esophagus is suppressed.
