Hiccups, also known as synchronous diaphragmatic flutter (SDF) or singultus, are involuntary contractions of the diaphragm muscle that causes a sudden, sharp intake of breath.
They can be an annoyance and may interrupt daily activities, such as speaking, eating, or sleeping. While hiccups are usually harmless and resolve on their own, there are some simple remedies you can try to stop them faster.
How to Stop Hiccups
Here are some ways to stop hiccups;
Hold your breath
One of the most common ways to stop hiccups is to hold your breath. Take a deep breath, then hold it for as long as you can. This can help relax the diaphragm muscle and stop the hiccups.
Breathe into a paper bag
Breathing into a paper bag can also help stop hiccups. This technique increases the amount of carbon dioxide in the bloodstream, which can help relax the diaphragm muscle and stop the hiccups.
Drink water
Drinking water can help stop hiccups by relaxing the diaphragm muscle. Take small sips of water, or try drinking a glass of water quickly without stopping to take a breath.
Swallow something sweet
Swallowing something sweet, such as a spoonful of sugar, can also help stop hiccups. The sweet taste can stimulate the vagus nerve, which can help relax the diaphragm muscle.
Swallow something sour
Swallowing something sour, such as a spoonful of vinegar, can also help stop hiccups. The sour taste can also stimulate the vagus nerve and help relax the diaphragm muscle.
Gargle with ice water
Gargling with ice water can help stop hiccups by stimulating the vagus nerve. Take a small sip of ice water, then gargle it in the back of your throat for a few seconds before swallowing.
Pull your knees up to your chest
Pulling your knees up to your chest can help stop hiccups by compressing the chest and diaphragm muscles. Lie down on your back and bring your knees up to your chest, holding them there for a few seconds.
Try to distract yourself
Sometimes, hiccups can be caused by stress or anxiety. Trying to distract yourself can help stop hiccups by taking your mind off of them. Try doing something that requires concentration, such as solving a puzzle or doing a crossword.
Seek medical attention
In rare cases, hiccups can last for more than 48 hours and may be a sign of an underlying medical condition. If your hiccups last longer than two days, or if they are accompanied by other symptoms, such as chest pain or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention.
Takeaway
Hiccups can be an annoyance, but they are usually harmless and resolve on their own. However, if you want to stop them faster, there are many simple remedies you can try, such as holding your breath, drinking water, or swallowing something sweet or sour.
If your hiccups last longer than two days or are accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical attention.
What causes hiccups?
Hiccups are caused by sudden contractions of the diaphragm muscle, which separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity.
The exact cause of these contractions is unknown, but they can be triggered by eating too quickly, swallowing air, drinking carbonated beverages, or sudden changes in temperature.
Can stress cause hiccups?
Yes, stress can cause hiccups. When you are stressed, your body releases adrenaline, which can stimulate the diaphragm muscle and cause hiccups. Trying to distract yourself or doing something that requires concentration can help stop hiccups caused by stress.
What are some home remedies to stop hiccups?
There are many simple remedies you can try to stop hiccups at home, such as holding your breath, drinking water, swallowing something sweet or sour, gargling with ice water, or pulling your knees up to your chest.
Applying pressure to certain points on the body, such as the area just above the upper lip or the back of the neck, can also help stop hiccups.
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