Why Do We Get Hiccups? | Easy Science Reading

 

This short science reading passage is for English learners. Read the passage, learn key vocabulary, and answer the questions.

Hiccups happen when the diaphragm moves suddenly and the vocal cords close.

Reading Level

A2-B1

Word Count

285 words

Reading Passage

Almost everyone gets hiccups. A hiccup is a small, sudden sound that comes from the body. It can happen once, or it can happen many times in a row.

Hiccups begin with a muscle called the diaphragm. The diaphragm moves down when we breathe in and moves up when we breathe out. It helps air move in and out of the lungs.

Sometimes the diaphragm moves suddenly without our control. This sudden movement is called a spasm. When the diaphragm spasms, air rushes into the throat quickly.

At the same time, the vocal cords close suddenly. The vocal cords help us speak, but during a hiccup they close fast. This creates the small "hic" sound.

Many things can cause hiccups. Eating too fast, drinking fizzy drinks, laughing hard, or swallowing air can irritate the diaphragm. A full stomach can also press near the diaphragm and start hiccups.

Most hiccups are harmless and go away by themselves. People try many ways to stop them, such as drinking water slowly or holding their breath for a short time. These methods may help some people, but not always.

Hiccups are usually just a small body reaction. They show how breathing muscles, the throat, and the nervous system can work together in a surprising way.

A diaphragm spasm and closing vocal cords create the hiccup sound.

Key Vocabulary

Word	Meaning	Example
hiccup	a small sudden sound from the body	I had a hiccup after drinking soda.
diaphragm	a large muscle under the lungs that helps us breathe	The diaphragm moves when we breathe.
spasm	a quick movement of a muscle that you do not control	A diaphragm spasm can cause a hiccup.
vocal cords	parts in the throat that help make sound	Vocal cords close during a hiccup.
harmless	not dangerous	Most hiccups are harmless.

Reading Comprehension Questions

1. What is a hiccup?
2. What muscle helps start hiccups?
3. What is a spasm?
4. What closes suddenly during a hiccup?
5. Name two things that can cause hiccups.

Answers

1. A hiccup is a small, sudden sound from the body.
2. The diaphragm helps start hiccups.
3. A spasm is a quick muscle movement that you do not control.
4. The vocal cords close suddenly during a hiccup.
5. Eating too fast, drinking fizzy drinks, laughing hard, swallowing air, or having a full stomach can cause hiccups.

Short Summary

Hiccups happen when the diaphragm moves suddenly and the vocal cords close quickly. This makes the small "hic" sound.

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