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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Why Do I Feel Tightening And Hiccups When I Eat McDonald S French Fries?

What is wrong when I eat McDonald s french fries? I begin to feel a tightening, then a hiccup, more tightening, then it lasts about 15 minutes and it is gone. This ONLY happens with McDonald s fries. Fries from other fast-food restaurants are good and have no problems.
posted on Tue, 19 Sep 2023
Twitter Tue, 2 Sep 2025 Answered on
Twitter Wed, 1 Oct 2025 Last reviewed on
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello,

Hiccups are commonly caused by irritation of the vagus nerve or diaphragm. The fries trigger bloating, acid, or spasms, that could set off hiccups. Avoid McDonald’s fries (since they are the only trigger). Since the tightening(spasm) that you are experiencing lasts for 15 minutes, it is short lived and not a permanent injury. If you experience the same symptoms with other food as well then it can be indicative of GERD or esophageal spasm.

Since you are sensitive to some of the ingredients used in Mc Donald fries, avoid taking it. If the symptom ever feels like chest pain, severe trouble swallowing, or difficulty breathing, then get clinically examined by your doctor. You need to rule out any developing heart problem or serious esophagus problems.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
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Why Do I Feel Tightening And Hiccups When I Eat McDonald S French Fries?

Hello, Hiccups are commonly caused by irritation of the vagus nerve or diaphragm. The fries trigger bloating, acid, or spasms, that could set off hiccups. Avoid McDonald’s fries (since they are the only trigger). Since the tightening(spasm) that you are experiencing lasts for 15 minutes, it is short lived and not a permanent injury. If you experience the same symptoms with other food as well then it can be indicative of GERD or esophageal spasm. Since you are sensitive to some of the ingredients used in Mc Donald fries, avoid taking it. If the symptom ever feels like chest pain, severe trouble swallowing, or difficulty breathing, then get clinically examined by your doctor. You need to rule out any developing heart problem or serious esophagus problems. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician