Question 12

Hiccups are caused by irritation of the phrenic nerve.

Irritation of the phrenic nerve can lead to hiccups, which are involuntary contractions of the diaphragm followed by a rapid closure of the vocal cords.

A) dysphagia

Dysphagia refers to difficulty swallowing, which is not directly related to the phrenic nerve. It is typically associated with issues in the muscles and nerves that control swallowing, rather than irritation of the phrenic nerve.

B) hiccups

Hiccups occur when the phrenic nerve is irritated, leading to involuntary contractions of the diaphragm. This option is correct because the phrenic nerve directly influences the diaphragm's movement, which is integral to the hiccup reflex.

C) indigestion

Indigestion involves discomfort in the stomach associated with difficulty in digesting food. This condition is primarily related to gastrointestinal function rather than irritation of the phrenic nerve, making it an incorrect choice.

D) nausea and vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are symptoms often related to various conditions affecting the gastrointestinal system or central nervous system but are not specifically caused by irritation of the phrenic nerve. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

Conclusion

Hiccups, caused by irritation of the phrenic nerve, stand out as the correct answer due to the direct connection between the nerve's function and the diaphragm's contraction. The other options, while related to bodily functions, do not specifically involve the phrenic nerve, making them incorrect in this context.