How to Get Rid of Hiccups Fast: 8 Proven Home Remedies That Actually Work

At one point or the other, you must have experienced hiccups, though not hurting yet you wish it can just stop and let you be. This is the main reason the content in this article was together to help provide tips on how to get rid of hiccups.

To take control over those repetitive hic! sounds, keep reading so you could figure out what truly wor

So first,

What Are Hiccups

Hiccups are unexpected involuntary contractions of the diaphragm where each contraction is closely followed by a quick closure of the vocal cords that produces the “hic” sound.

Hiccups are harmless and don’t last for long but they can be annoying. Understanding the causes and best remedy for hiccups can help you stop hiccups fast.

Short term hiccups usually take a few seconds to minutes and often go on their own.

It is triggered by drinking, eating, stress or laughter.

Persistent hiccups can last more than two days and may cause fatigue, discomfort, or have difficulty with sleeping.

Intractable hiccups can persist for more than two months and may result in insomnia, weight loss, stress, or emotional distress.

Cure for hiccups that fall under persistent and intractable usually requires medical attention.

Causes of Hiccups 

The diaphragm, which plays a major role in breathing, may be affected by various factors some of which may include your eating and drinking patterns or your emotions.

1. Eating Patterns 

Certain eating habits can irritate the diaphragm leading to hiccups. These eating patterns may include;

• Hot foods
• Spicy foods
• Eating in a rush
• Excessive eating 
• Swallowing air while sucking candy or chewing gum.

2. Drinking Habits 

Below is a list of drinking habits that can irritate the esophagus and the nerves connected to the diaphragm.

• Alcohol 
• Carbonated drinks 
• Intake of beverages in a rush
• Sudden change in the temperature of beverages consumed, for instance from iced beverages to hot ones.

3. Emotional Factors 

Mental stress and strong emotions can play a role in triggering hiccups. The list may include;

• Shock or fright 
• Sudden excitement 
• Sudden shift in breathing patterns 

4. Gastrointestinal Issues

Digestive disturbances are a major reason for hiccups, especially when it involves bloating.

 Gastrointestinal issues can be initiated 

• Acid reflux 
• Indigestion or gas buildup 
• Sudden stomach expansion

5. Other Factors 

The other factors that can cause hiccups includes;

• Sore throat
• Imbalances like diabetes 
• Metabolic disorders
• Certain medications 
• Central nervous system disorders
• Irritation of nerve pathways
• Object touching the eardrum

Symptoms Of Hiccups 

The common symptom associated with hiccups are;

1. Repetitive “Hic” Sound

This is the main symptom of hiccups which is due to a sudden contraction of the diaphragm and a quick and immediate closure of the vocal cords which produce the “hic” sound.

It occurs every few seconds and may last for minutes.

2. Jerking

With each hiccup, there’s a small jerk on your chest or abdomen and a movement in the throat area. These movements are harmless but become uncomfortable with repetition.

3. Sensation of Pressure

Hiccups can cause a mild tight feeling where the diaphragm is located Pressure in the upper belly mostly during prolonged episodes

4. Disruption of Activities

Although frequent hiccups may seem harmless, they are capable of disrupting activities like talking, drinking, eating, breathing, and sleeping.

When hiccups occur while eating, it can make infants or younger children become fussy.

Practical Ways to Get Rid Of Hiccups 

You can try out any of the list below anytime you catch yourself hiccupping 

1.  Take a deep breath and hold it for about 15seconds before exhaling slowly.

2. Sip cold water slowly so the hiccup reflex can be interrupted.

3. Breathing into a paper bag relaxes your diaphragm and increases the carbon dioxide in your blood

4. The grainy texture in sugar can activate the vagus nerve so swallowing a teaspoon of sugar is top on the list of how to get rid of hiccups.

5. Lean forward and hold your knees tightly to your chest.

6. Take a bite into a lemon, it’s sour taste can interrupt your system out of the hiccup cycle.

7. Pull out your tongue gently- it can stimulate the nerves in your throat and relax the diaphragm.

If hiccups persist more than 48 hours after trying one or more of these tips, make sure to see a doctor immediately

Final Thoughts 

Hiccups are often a temporary annoyance that can be ignored but when they occur consistently into hours, they begin to disrupt other regular activities.

Persistent hiccups are usually signals of a health issue that requires proper medical attention.

For you to stop hiccups fast, it is important to understand the causes and symptoms, and how to get rid of hiccups that have been outlined in this article, this way you will know the right cure for hiccups to seek.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Below is a list of the common questions people ask about hiccups.

1. What Are the Causes of Hiccups?

Hiccups are caused by the sudden, involuntary contractions of the diaphragm, which is followed by the unexpected closure of the vocal cords.  

2. How Long Does Hiccups Last?

Most hiccups last a few minutes but where it becomes persistent and runs into days, it may require medical attention.

3. What is the Best Remedy for Hiccups ?

Common remedies for hiccups may include:

• Sipping cold water
• Holding your breath
• Pulling your tongue gently
• Breathing into a paper bag
• Swallowing a teaspoon of sugar

4. Can Medications Cause Hiccups?

Drugs like steroids, chemotherapy, and sedatives can initiate hiccups.

5.Do Babies and Children Have Hiccups?

Infants and children do have hiccups mostly after feeding.  

6. Can Hiccups Be Avoided?

Yes but to an extent by;

• Eating slowly
• Avoid alcohol 
• Minimize carbonated
• Avoid excessive eating
• Manage stress and anxiety