Health · 13 November 2025
Why Spicy Food Triggers Sudden Hiccups in Some People
This BriefTea explainer looks at why some people get hiccups immediately after eating spicy food. The chilli compound capsaicin irritates nerves in the oesophagus and stomach, triggering the diaphragm to spasm—causing fast, repeated hiccups. Spicy food can also stimulate the vagus and phrenic nerves, which regulate breathing rhythm, making hiccups more likely in sensitive people. Eating quickly or swallowing air increases the effect, causing stronger reactions after hot dishes.
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