Body Language: Are These Sounds and Signals a Problem?

Hiccups

What's Normal

Doing so for four hours or less. Hiccups are often triggered when you drink soda or alcohol or sudden excitement or stress causes a quick intake of air that makes the top of your esophagus close down. Try gargling with ice water, breathing into a bag, or biting on a lemon. "Those old wives' tales have been cited in the medical literature as being effective for some people," says Patricia Raymond, MD, a board-certified gastroenterologist in Chesapeake, Virginia.

What's Not

If hiccups last longer than four hours, you could have a tumor or an abscess near your heart or esophagus. Your doctor may order a CT scan of your chest. If everything looks fine but the hiccups continue, medication, such as Thorazine, can calm the nerves responsible.