The Science of Why We Hiccup

What this episode covers

This episode explores the quirky phenomenon of hiccups—what causes them and why they’re so hard to stop. Hiccups begin with a sudden spasm of the diaphragm, forcing air into the lungs before the vocal cords snap shut, creating the familiar hic sound. Common triggers include eating too fast, drinking soda, temperature changes, or laughing too hard. Scientists believe hiccups may be an ancient leftover reflex from early amphibians or a mechanism to help babies release air while feeding. Remedies like holding your breath, swallowing sugar, or getting startled all work by trying to interrupt the body’s “hiccup reflex arc.” While most hiccups are harmless, some historical cases lasted years—like Charles Osborne, who hiccuped for 68 years straight. In the end, hiccups are one of the body’s most random glitches—annoying, amusing, and still a little mysterious.

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