Why Do We Get Hiccups? Identify The Causes And Ways To Stop Them Naturally
Hiccups or Synchronous Diaphragmatic Flutter (SDF) are quite common and very annoying too. It occurs due to the involuntary contractions of the diaphragm muscle and the irritation of the nerves that extend from the neck to the chest.
Here in the blog, our expert writer helps you understand some common reasons that cause hiccups and she has also jotted down some tried and tested home remedies that you can do on your own to get rid of hiccups. Read on...
Identify the Causes of Hiccups
Many conditions such as swallowing air with food, overeating, drinking too fast, as well as certain health conditions like damage to the phrenic nerve, strokes, and brain tumors, can cause hiccups.
6 Natural Ways to Stop Hiccups
Below are six remedies that can help you get rid of hiccups naturally:
1. Try breathing into a paper bag
Breathing slowly and deeply into a small paper bag increases the carbon dioxide level in the blood and makes the diaphragm contract more deeply to bring in more oxygen. Thus, interfering with the hiccups to stop. In case you have any other respiratory health query, you may Ask a Pulmonologist online.
2. Hold your breath for a few seconds
Breathe in and hold your breath for as long as possible, and swallow your saliva when you feel the hiccup sensation coming. Take a deep breath and repeat again. Do this exercise 2 or 3 times. It is the simplest way to stop the hiccups.
3. Clog both the ears with your index fingers
Stick your fingers in both ears for 30 seconds and do not breathe. Then remove the fingers and breathe slowly. Repeat this action 2-3 times to get relief from hiccups.
4. Suck some lemon juice
Slice a lemon and suck on it slowly like a piece of candy. This will help to get rid of the hiccup.
5. Gargle with iced water
Pour some water into a cup or glass filled with ice cubes and slowly gargle with it. This too helps to stop hiccups.
6. Have a mouthful of sugar
Eat 1-2 tablespoons of sugar granules. The graininess of the sugar may relax the irritated esophagus and thus eliminate the hiccups.
Conclusion
Hiccups mostly stop within minutes to an hour. However, if it persists for any longer duration and interferes with your ability to breathe, eat, or sleep then consult a Neurologist immediately for the right medical assistance. It might be a signal to any major health condition.
For any query related to hiccups, you can Ask a General Physician at Ask A Doctor 24x7
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Disclaimer: Information provided on this page is not intended to substitute for proper medical advice provided by your healthcare professional. This is only for informational purposes.
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