Algonquin College Health Program Assessment (AC-HPAT) Practice Exam

What is one characteristic of the diaphragm during hiccups?

1. It relaxes excessively

2. It spasms involuntarily

3. It contracts with extreme force

4. It becomes paralyzed

The correct answer is: It spasms involuntarily

During hiccups, the diaphragm spasms involuntarily, which is the correct characteristic to describe what's happening. This spasmodic contraction causes a sudden intake of breath that is abruptly stopped by the closure of the vocal cords, producing the characteristic "hic" sound associated with the condition. These involuntary contractions are generally brief and occur repeatedly, leading to the hiccup sensation. The other options do not accurately describe the process occurring during hiccups. While relaxation of the diaphragm or contracting extremely could be confusing, neither aligns with the involuntary spasms typical of hiccups. Paralysis of the diaphragm would prevent the respiratory movements entirely, which is not what occurs during this phenomenon. Thus, the nature of these involuntary spasms is key to understanding why the diaphragm behaves as it does during hiccups.