How to stop hiccups
Hiccups are quite common in our everyday life. When there are involuntary contractions of the diaphragm we get hiccups. In some cases, Starting for few minutes, hiccups can prolong for more than 48hours. There can be multiple reasons like eating food quickly or stomach full of food, too much consumption of carbonated water, alcohol, excitement, etc.
So, how can we stop hiccups with simple and quick remedies??
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Drinking ice-cold water: When one drinks ice-cold water, it reduces the irritation caused in the diaphragm, and also cold water shocks the digestive system. So, it helps in getting back to normal functionality. So, try to guzzle down a glass of cold water to stop the hiccups.
Ice cubes: Just like gulping on ice-cold water, you can also suck a piece or two of ice cubes to reduce the irritation of the diaphragm.
Adding honey: Adding honey to your icy glass of water will stop hiccups right away as honey calms and soothes the vagus nerve. It will break the chain of the hiccup reflex giving relief from hiccups.
Holding your breath: When you take the deepest breaths or hold your breath, the diaphragm fully contracts and stops the spasming. So, holding your breath helps in controlling hiccups.
White/brown sugar: The granules of sugar stimulate the vagus nerve disturbing the diaphragm spasms. So try to take a teaspoon of white/ brown sugar. Drink some water while holding the sugar in your mouth.
Apple cider vinegar: The pectin in apple cider vinegar soothes intestinal spasms. So, mix a tbsp of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water to stop hiccups.
Peanut butter/Almond butter: As the swallowing pattern for peanut butter/almond butter is different, the vagus nerve reacts differently. So try swallowing a tbsp of peanut butter/almond butter.
Lemon juice: Also known as the bartender’s trick, squeezing at least 1/2 tsp lemon juice in your mouth can also relieve you from hiccups.
chamomile tea: The herbal teas help in relieving muscle spasms. So, drinking chamomile tea works better.
Pinching your nose: Exhaling by pinching your nose and mouth closed can interrupt the hiccups.
Cough or burp: Coughing or burping can get rid of extra gas or air stopping the hiccups.
Inhale and swallow: Inhaling and swallowing your saliva can stimulate the vagus nerve. So try repeating the process.
Essential oils: The scents from the essential oils ease the nerves and reduces the spasms. So try breathing essential oils.
Drink warm milk: The sudden temperature change can stimulate the vagus nerve and drinking warm milk can relieve hiccups.
Note**: If hiccups are not controlled for a very long time, it is always suggested to consult a doctor as there can be underlying health issues like pneumonia, stomach disorders, bowel diseases, bladder irritation, etc.