Former NFL and MLB player Bo Jackson has been suffering from chronic hiccups since July 2022 and has revealed that he will undergo a medical procedure to provide relief, a People report tells us.
Speaking on the morning show "McElroy and Cubelic in the Morning" on WJOX-FM, Jackson said that he has been dealing with hiccups for almost a year, and despite trying different cures, doctors have not been able to identify the cause.
"I have done everything - scare me, hang upside down, drink water, smell the a-- of a porcupine," Jackson told interviewers.
A Look at the Bizarre Condition
Hiccuping is one of those involuntary bodily functions that can be either amusing or downright annoying, especially when it persists for an extended period of time.
Healthline tells us that chronic hiccups are one such issue that can last for years in some people and could be a sign of an underlying medical condition. But did you know that they can also cause additional health problems, such as exhaustion and severe weight loss?
Additionally, the reputable health guide website Mayo Clinic tells us that hiccups that persist for more than two days can signal nerve damage or irritation, metabolic issues, central nervous system disorders, and other complications.
What Causes Chronic Hiccups?
Several sources suggest that several risk factors can make one more susceptible to chronic hiccups, including anxiety, pregnancy, alcohol abuse, and nervous system disorders.
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Other triggers could be recent abdominal surgery, esophagus diseases, stomach, intestines, kidneys or liver, cancerous tumors, brain or spinal cord lesions, pneumonia, or irritation of the nerves that control breathing.
How to Get Rid of Chronic Hiccups?
Getting rid of chronic hiccups requires more than just sipping water, and it's imperative to seek medical attention if the problem persists.
Depending on the underlying cause, Healthline explains that treatments can range from taking medications prescribed by a doctor to surgical interventions such as implanting a device that electrically stimulates the vagus nerve, injecting the phrenic nerve with an anesthetic, or even acupuncture.
Finding the root cause of chronic hiccups can sometimes take an extended period of time, but with the proper medical attention, they can usually be effectively treated.
What's next for Bo Jackson?
While Jackson's condition is currently unknown, his decision to seek medical attention is a step in the right direction.
It is crucial to seek professional medical advice if you experience hiccups that last for more than 48 hours, as they may be a sign of a more significant health issue.
It is also essential to avoid self-treatment and home remedies, as chronic hiccups require proper medical treatment.
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