Ways to Get Rid of Hiccups

There are hardly any people in the world, who have not experienced hiccups. They are a common phenomena that affect everyone. Moreover, they can be a source of embarrassment for us, especially at times of meetings or gatherings.

What are Hiccups?

Hiccups are fitful contractions of the diaphragm, which occur suddenly and repeatedly for a few minutes. It is a kind of reflex action by which the body protects itself. They are the result of irritation in the diaphragm, which forces a rush of air in the lungs, causing premature rapid closure of the epiglottis, and are accompanied by a 'hic' like sound. They are also referred to as 'hiccoughs'.

Causes

Hiccups are caused when the phrenic nerve in the diaphragm gets irritated. Basically, it is a symptom of indigestion or too much of air in the diaphragm (the windpipe, in technical terms). Few things that irritate the nerve and cause hiccups are:

• Eating food in a hurry and in the process, swallowing air.
• Emotional excitement or stress or drinking alcohol
• Beverages like soda pop
• Having something hot just after having something cold, leading to a sudden change in inside or outside body temperature.
• Hot and spicy foods
• Strong scents or fumes
• Laughing too much
• Smoking

Remedies

Some of the popular treatments are as follows:

• The easiest way to stop hiccups is to hold your breath. Inhale and exhale deeply and hold as long as possible.
• Drinking water may solve the problem, but make sure that you drink at least a glass of water in one sitting.
• A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine reveals that swallowing some dry sugar may help.
• Drinking warm water slowly. Unlike the previous case, in which you drink normal water at one go, you have to take small sips of warm water.

You may not like these treatments, but once the hiccups are gone, you can enjoy whatever you want. There are also some home remedies, which are known to be quite helpful.

• Mix a teaspoon each of ginger juice, lime juice, honey and a pinch of pepper.
• Peanut butter works well too.
• Sucking on a wedge of lime slowly.
• Nibble on radish leaves.

If you still are not able to cure your hiccups or if they recur, seek medical treatment. Generally, they occur for a few minutes only. If it does not subside in a few minutes, it is always advisable to consult a doctor. Intake of healthy food are a good way to prevent them.