Hiccups are known medically as singulitis and are because of the spasmodic contraction of the diaphragm. They serve no purpose in humans or other mammals and the sound is caused by sudden rush of air into the lungs when the epiglottis closes and the diaphragm contracts.
There are many reasons that are said to trigger hiccups. These reasons include:
- Lack of water
- Crying and sobbing
- Eating too quickly
- Laughing or coughing a lot.
- Being hungry for long periods
- Eating hot food and taking a chilled drink with it.