Question

Why do we hiccup and cough sometimes when we swallow food?

Answer 1

Normally, the entry of food into the windpipe is prevented by a flap-like structure called Epiglottis. But when we eat in a hurry, the flab gets lesser time to close the windpipe. Thus some of the food particles enter into the windpipe. It creates a hindrance in the movement of air in the windpipe and results in coughing or hiccup.