Hiccups are a common and often frustrating occurrence that can strike at any time. Whether you’re eating dinner, giving a presentation, or just going about your day, hiccups can be disruptive and embarrassing. While hiccups are usually harmless and short-lived, they can sometimes persist for an extended period. This can indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as nerve damage or central nervous system disorders.
Fortunately, you can try many simple home remedies to get rid of hiccups quickly. While there isn’t a lot of scientific evidence proving the effectiveness of these techniques, they are backed by a lot of anecdotal reports from people who have found relief using them. This article will discuss 16 effective remedies to help you get rid of hiccups quickly.
What Are Hiccups and Why Do We Get Them?
Hiccups occur when the diaphragm, the dome-shaped muscle at the base of the lungs, begins to spasm involuntarily. This causes you to suddenly inhale and your vocal cords to snap shut, creating the distinctive “hic” sound. The medical term for hiccups is “singultus“, which comes from the Latin word for “to catch one’s breath while sobbing”.
Interestingly, hiccups can occur at any age and are common in infants. They can happen in bursts, averaging around 10 times per minute. While most hiccups resolve on their own, understanding their underlying mechanisms can help us find effective solutions.
Why Do Hiccups Happen?
1. Transient Hiccups
Most hiccups are transient and can be triggered by various factors, including:
- Eating or Drinking Too Quickly: Rapid consumption can cause air swallowing, leading to diaphragm irritation.
- Laughing or Crying Excessively: Emotional responses can stimulate the diaphragm.
- Sudden Temperature Changes: Drinking hot beverages followed by cold ones or vice versa can provoke hiccups.
- Spicy Foods: Spices can irritate the diaphragm and lead to hiccups.
- Alcohol Consumption: Drinking alcohol can lead to dehydration and irritation of the esophagus, triggering hiccups.
2. Persistent Hiccups
In some cases, hiccups can become persistent, lasting longer than 48 hours. Persistent hiccups may be caused by:
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like pneumonia, pleurisy, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can irritate the diaphragm.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as corticosteroids or anesthesia, may trigger hiccups as a side effect.
- Surgical Procedures: Surgeries involving the chest or abdomen can lead to hiccup episodes.
- Neurological Disorders: Conditions affecting the nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis or stroke, can result in persistent hiccups.
How to Get Rid of Hiccups: 16 Remedies Really Work
1. Hold Your Breath
One of the most popular and effective ways to stop hiccups is by holding your breath. The increased carbon dioxide levels in the blood can help relax the diaphragm and stop the hiccups.
- Take a deep breath and hold it in for about 10 seconds, or as long as you comfortably can. This allows carbon dioxide to build up in your bloodstream. It can help relax the diaphragm and stop the spasms.
- Exhale slowly and take another deep breath. Repeat this process a few times until the hiccups subside.
- If holding your breath alone doesn’t work, try combining it with other techniques, such as swallowing water or pulling on your tongue.
2. Drink Water
Studies suggest that cold water can help soothe the diaphragm and may provide immediate relief. The act of swallowing can also help reset the diaphragm.
- Take small sips of water repeatedly, without pausing between sips. This continuous swallowing action can help interrupt the hiccup reflex and relax the diaphragm.
- Alternatively, try drinking from the opposite side of the glass by bending over and placing your mouth on the opposite side of the rim. This awkward position can help distract your brain and stop the hiccups. To do this, bend forward at the waist, place the glass against your lips on the opposite side of your mouth, and tilt the glass to drink.
- You can also try drinking through a straw, as the suction and continuous swallowing action may help stop the hiccups.
3. Swallow a Teaspoon of Sugar
The graininess of granulated sugar can stimulate the vagus nerve, which runs from the brain to the stomach. This stimulation can help stop the hiccups.
- Place a teaspoon of granulated sugar on your tongue. The coarse texture of the sugar crystals is thought to slightly irritate the back of the throat, triggering the vagus nerve.
- Swallow the sugar dry, without water. Allow the sugar to dissolve slowly in your mouth as you swallow, maximizing the contact time with the back of your throat.
- Wait a few seconds to see if the hiccups stop. If not, you can try repeating the process once more.
4. Try the Valsalva Maneuver
The Valsalva maneuver is a technique that involves trying to exhale forcibly while keeping your mouth closed and pinching your nose shut. This increases pressure in your chest cavity and may help stop hiccups by stimulating the vagus nerve and causing the diaphragm to relax.
- Take a deep breath, filling your lungs with as much air as possible.
- Pinch your nose and keep your mouth closed, creating an airtight seal.
- Exhale forcefully, as if you were trying to blow up a balloon. This action increases the pressure in your chest and abdomen. This can help stimulate the vagus nerve and stop the hiccups.
- Maintain this pressure for about 10-15 seconds, or as long as you comfortably can.
- Release your nose and breathe normally. The sudden release of pressure may help reset the diaphragm and stop the hiccups.
If done correctly, you should feel pressure in your ears and chest. Release your nose and breathe normally. Repeat the process a few times if needed.
5. Use the Paper Bag Method
Breathing into a paper bag increases the amount of carbon dioxide in your blood, which can help relax the diaphragm and stop the hiccups. To use this method:
- Find a small paper bag, such as a lunch bag or a paper grocery bag. Avoid using plastic bags, as they can pose a suffocation risk.
- Place the bag over your mouth and nose, creating a seal. Make sure the bag is not too large, as you want to be able to exhale fully into it.
- Breathe slowly and deeply into the bag for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. As you exhale into the bag, the carbon dioxide concentration inside the bag will increase.
- Remove the bag and breathe normally. The increased carbon dioxide levels in your blood can help relax the diaphragm and stop the hiccups.
Note: This method should not be used by individuals with respiratory conditions, such as asthma or COPD, as it can worsen their symptoms. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded while using this method, stop immediately and breathe normally.
6. Pull on Your Tongue
Gently pulling on your tongue can stimulate the vagus nerve and help stop hiccups. The vagus nerve is responsible for controlling many functions in the body, including the diaphragm.
- Stick out your tongue and gently grasp it with your fingers. Use a clean tissue or a piece of gauze to improve your grip if needed.
- Pull your tongue forward, extending it as far as comfortably possible. This action can help stimulate the vagus nerve and interrupt the hiccup reflex.
- Hold your tongue in this extended position for about 5-10 seconds, then release it.
- Wait a few seconds to see if the hiccups stop. If not, you can try repeating the process a few more times.
7. Press on Your Diaphragm
Applying pressure to the diaphragm can help stop the spasms that cause hiccups. This technique works by physically interrupting the contractions of the diaphragm muscle.
- Sit or stand up straight, ensuring your posture is aligned and your shoulders are relaxed.
- Place your fingers just below your sternum (breastbone), where you can feel a soft indentation. This is where your diaphragm is located.
- Press gently inward and upward, applying steady pressure for about 5-10 seconds. You should feel a slight discomfort, but not pain.
- Release the pressure and wait to see if the hiccups stop. If they persist, you can try repeating the process a few more times.
8. Eat a Slice of Lemon
The sourness of a lemon can stimulate the vagus nerve and help stop hiccups. The sudden, intense taste of the lemon can also help distract your brain from the hiccup reflex.
- Cut a small slice of lemon, about the size of a quarter. You can also use a wedge of lemon if you prefer.
- Place the lemon slice on your tongue and suck on it. This allows the sour juice to coat your tongue and the back of your throat.
- Hold the lemon in your mouth for about 5-10 seconds, or until the sourness becomes too intense.
- Swallow the lemon juice and wait a few seconds to see if the hiccups stop.
9. Use Vinegar
Similar to lemon, the sour taste of vinegar can stimulate the vagus nerve and help stop hiccups. The strong, pungent taste of vinegar can also help distract your brain from the hiccup reflex. To use this method:
- Pour a small amount of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar or white vinegar, into a teaspoon. You can also use a tablespoon if you prefer a larger amount.
- Place the vinegar on your tongue and swallow it quickly. The sharp, sour taste may cause you to grimace or shudder, which can help interrupt the hiccup reflex.
- Wait a few seconds to see if the hiccups stop. If they persist, you can try repeating the process once more.
10. Try Peanut Butter
The thick, sticky consistency of peanut butter can interrupt the breathing pattern and stop hiccups. The high-fat content of peanut butter can also help coat and soothe the irritated nerves that may be causing the hiccups.
- Take a spoonful of peanut butter, about the size of a tablespoon. Creamy or chunky peanut butter will work, depending on your preference.
- Eat the peanut butter slowly, allowing it to stick to the roof of your mouth and coat your tongue and throat as you swallow.
- Take your time swallowing the peanut butter, as the prolonged swallowing action can help interrupt the hiccup reflex.
- Wait a few seconds to see if the hiccups stop. If they persist, you can try eating another spoonful of peanut butter.
Note: If you have a peanut allergy, do not attempt this remedy. You can try using almond butter or another nut butter instead, as long as you are not allergic to those nuts.
11. Hug Your Knees
Sitting down and hugging your knees can compress the chest and diaphragm, which may help stop hiccups. This position can also help relax your body and reduce stress, which may be contributing to your hiccups.
- Sit down on a chair or the floor, ensuring your back is straight and your feet are flat on the ground.
- Bring your knees up to your chest, hugging them tightly with your arms. You should feel a gentle compression in your chest and abdomen.
- Rest your chin on your knees, tucking your head down slightly. This position can help further compress the diaphragm and interrupt the hiccup reflex.
- Hold this position for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, taking slow, deep breaths as you do so.
- Slowly release your knees and return to a normal sitting position. Wait a few seconds to see if the hiccups have stopped.
12. Try Bitters and Lime
Bitters, such as Angostura bitters, have a strong, concentrated flavor that can stimulate the vagus nerve and help stop hiccups. The combination of bitters and lime can create an intense taste sensation that can help distract your brain from the hiccup reflex.
- Pour a few dashes of bitters, about 4-5 drops, onto a slice or wedge of lime. You can use a napkin or a small plate to catch any excess bitters.
- Place the lime slice in your mouth, with the bitters-coated side facing your tongue. Bite down gently on the lime to release some of the juice.
- Suck on the lime slice, allowing the bitters and lime juice to coat your tongue and the back of your throat. The strong, complex flavors should create an intense taste sensation.
- Continue sucking on the lime for about 30 seconds, or until the taste becomes too strong to bear.
- Spit out the lime and wait a few seconds to see if the hiccups have stopped. If they persist, you can try repeating the process with a fresh lime slice.
13. Eat Some Honey
Honey can coat and soothe the irritated nerves that may be causing hiccups. The thick, viscous texture of honey can also help interrupt the breathing pattern and distract your brain from the hiccup reflex.
- Take a teaspoon of honey, preferably raw or organic honey for maximum benefits. If you don’t have honey, you can also use corn syrup or maple syrup.
- Swallow the honey slowly, allowing it to coat your tongue and throat as it goes down. Take your time swallowing, as the prolonged swallowing action can help interrupt the hiccup reflex.
- If the honey is too thick to swallow easily, you can try mixing it with a small amount of warm water or tea to thin it out.
- Wait a few seconds to see if the hiccups stop. If they persist, you can try taking another teaspoon of honey.
14. Suck on an Ice Cube
The coldness of an ice cube can stimulate the vagus nerve and help stop hiccups. The sudden temperature change can also help distract your brain from the hiccup reflex.
- Place a small ice cube, about the size of a grape, in your mouth. You can also use a piece of crushed ice if you prefer.
- Suck on the ice cube, allowing it to melt slowly in your mouth. As the ice melts, the cold water will trickle down your throat, helping to soothe any irritation.
- Continue sucking on the ice cube until it has completely melted, or until the hiccups stop. You can move the ice cube around in your mouth to stimulate different areas.
- If the hiccups persist, you can try sucking on another ice cube or holding a larger piece of ice against the back of your throat for a few seconds.
15. Try the Ear Massage Method
Gently massaging or pulling on your earlobes can stimulate the vagus nerve, which may help relieve hiccups. The vagus nerve has branches that extend to the ears, so stimulating these areas can help interrupt the hiccup reflex.
- Sit or stand in a comfortable position, ensuring your head and neck are relaxed.
- Using your thumb and forefinger, gently massage your earlobes, starting at the base of the earlobe and working your way up to the tip. Use a circular motion, applying gentle pressure as you go.
- Alternatively, you can gently pull downward on your earlobes, stretching them slightly. Hold the stretch for about 5-10 seconds before releasing.
- Continue massaging or pulling on your earlobes for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until the hiccups stop.
- If the hiccups persist, you can try massaging other parts of your ear, such as the outer rim or the area just behind your earlobe.
16. Tap or Rub the Back of Your Neck
Stimulating the phrenic nerve, which runs from the neck to the diaphragm, may help stop hiccups. The phrenic nerve controls the contractions of the diaphragm, so stimulating it can help interrupt the hiccup reflex.
- Sit or stand in a comfortable position, ensuring your head and neck are relaxed.
- Using your fingers, gently tap or rub the back of your neck, focusing on the area just above your collar. You can use one hand or both hands, depending on your preference.
- Apply gentle pressure as you tap or rub, using a circular motion. You should feel a slight sensation, but not pain or discomfort.
- Continue tapping or rubbing for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until the hiccups stop.
- Alternatively, you can place a cold compress or an ice pack on the back of your neck for a similar effect. The coldness can help stimulate the phrenic nerve and interrupt the hiccup reflex.
The “Forced Inspiratory Suction and Swallow Tool” (FISST)
Recent studies have introduced innovative tools for managing hiccups. One such tool is the Forced Inspiratory Suction and Swallow Tool (FISST). It is a special straw that requires forceful suction to draw water, stimulating the phrenic and vagus nerves.
A survey of 249 users reported a staggering 92% success rate in stopping hiccups using this method. This tool represents a fascinating intersection of science and practical application, showcasing how modern medicine can address common issues effectively.
How to Prevent Hiccups in the Future?
While it may not always be possible to prevent hiccups, you can reduce your risk by:
- Eating and drinking slowly, taking small bites and sips: Rushing through meals or gulping down drinks can cause you to swallow air, which can trigger hiccups. Take your time when eating and drinking, savoring each bite and sip.
- Avoiding carbonated beverages or limiting your intake: The bubbles in carbonated drinks can expand in your stomach, putting pressure on your diaphragm and leading to hiccups. If you’re prone to hiccups, try limiting or avoiding carbonated beverages.
- Managing stress and anxiety through relaxation techniques, therapy, or medication: Stress and anxiety can cause muscle tension and alter breathing patterns, which can trigger hiccups. Finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as through relaxation techniques, therapy, or medication, can help prevent hiccups.
- Not eating or drinking to excess, especially before bedtime: Overeating or drinking too much, particularly late at night, can increase your risk of hiccups. Try to eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day, and avoid eating or drinking large amounts close to bedtime.
- Treating any underlying medical conditions that may contribute to hiccups: If you have a medical condition that causes frequent hiccups, work with your doctor to manage the condition.
When to See a Doctor?
While most hiccups are harmless, you should consult a healthcare professional if:
- Hiccups Last Longer than 48 Hours: Persistent hiccups may indicate an underlying medical condition that requires attention.
- Hiccups Interfere with Daily Activities: If hiccups disrupt your eating, sleeping, or work, it’s time to seek help.
- Accompanying Symptoms: If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or other concerning symptoms, consult a doctor immediately. These could be signs of a more serious issue.
