Hiccups are uncontrollable spasms or contractions of the diaphragm muscle in charge of breathing. When the diaphragm contracts, it generates a fast, abrupt inhale of air, accompanied by the constriction of the vocal cords, causing the distinctive “hic” sound. These can arise randomly and usually last a few minutes, but they can endure for days, weeks, or even months in certain situations, which can be concerning.
What causes Hiccups?
Hiccups are caused by several conditions, some of which are listed below:
- Eating or drinking too quickly: When you eat or drink too soon, you may swallow air, which can irritate the diaphragm and cause hiccups.
- Drinking carbonated beverages: Carbonated beverages like soda can cause hiccups due to the carbon dioxide gas in the drink.
- Alcohol consumption: Drinking too much alcohol can cause hiccups due to its effect on the nervous system.
- Emotional stress: Emotional stress or excitement can cause hiccups due to its effect on the diaphragm muscle.
- Acid reflux: Acid reflux can irritate the diaphragm and cause hiccups.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as nerve damage, tumours, or infections, can affect the nerves that control the diaphragm and cause hiccups.
Remedies to get rid of Hiccups:
Get rid of hiccups, and there are several cures and approaches available. Some of the most effective are mentioned below.
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Hold your breath
Deepen your breathing and hold it as much as you possibly can. This can assist in realigning your diaphragm and prevent hiccups.
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Breathe into a paper bag
Breathing into a paper bag can help to increase the carbon dioxide levels in your blood, which can help to relax your diaphragm and stop hiccups.
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Gulp a glass of water down
Gulping a glass of water down can help swallow air, stopping hiccups.
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Gargle with water
Gargling with water can help stimulate the nerves in your throat and stop hiccups.
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Swallow something sweet
Swallowing something sweet, like sugar or honey, can help stimulate the vagus nerve, stopping hiccups.
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Press on your diaphragm
Pressing on your diaphragm, located just below your rib cage, can help stimulate it and stop hiccups.
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Pull your knees up to your chest
Sitting down and pulling your knees up to your chest can help relax your diaphragm and stop hiccups.
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Have someone scare you
This is an old trick that works for some people. Having someone jump out and scare you can help to stop hiccups.
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Use a digital rectal massage
This may seem strange, but some people find that massaging the rectum with a finger can help to stimulate the vagus nerve and stop hiccups.
Note: While most hiccups are inconsequential, chronic or recurrent hiccups can indicate an undiagnosed cause condition and should be investigated by a healthcare expert. If you have hiccups for more than 48 hours or are coupled with other symptoms such as trouble breathing, chest discomfort, or vomiting, you should seek medical treatment.
