By
Kiwilimón - 2018-10-08T17:09:56.656848Z
There is nothing more annoying than trying to carry on a conversation, eat, or fall asleep with a case of hiccups.
If you have ever had them, you know that getting rid of the spasms is not that easy.
At Kiwilimón, we took on the task of researching and testing (yes, we get hiccups too) the best remedies to combat them.
via GIPHY
1. Reset the function of the vagus nerve
Hiccups often begin due to irritation in the nerve that originates in the brainstem and extends to the stomach, pancreas, and liver. To get rid of the spasm, you just need to stimulate the vagus nerve by drinking cold water, sucking on a lemon, or taking a tablespoon of honey with warm water.
2. Breathe into a paper bag
Doing this allows the body to retain more carbon dioxide, which forces the diaphragm to take deeper breaths to obtain more oxygen. Alleviate hiccups by taking a couple of breaths while covering your nose and mouth with a paper bag.
3. Bring your knees to your chest
Bend your knees and bring them as close to your chest as you can. With this movement, you will be compressing the diaphragm. Since a good portion of hiccup cases originate in the diaphragm, compressing it helps stop the contractions.
4. Perform the Valsalva maneuver
It sounds complicated, but you have probably done it before. Inhale and fill your lungs; after a few seconds, pinch your nose and close your mouth while exhaling. This technique increases the pressure inside the airways, which helps stimulate the vagus nerve.
5. Although it sounds bad, burp
Hiccups can manifest due to digestive issues or simply because you ate something very heavy. If this is your case, you can relieve the spasm by provoking a burp. Dilute a few drops of peppermint oil with olive oil and place it on your palate. This will help provoke the burp.
6. Place an ice cube on your abdomen
If you don't have ice at home, you can use very cold water. Place an ice cube on your belly button or drink very cold water. Either of these actions will cause a sudden change in the temperature of your abdominal area, which could stop the spasmodic movement.
7. Exercise your diaphragm
Inhale slowly until your diaphragm is filled with air, and hold the breath as long as you can. Then, exhale slowly until your lungs are completely emptied. Do these breaths a couple of times to stretch your diaphragm and stop the contractions.
via GIPHY
These tricks work great for occasional hiccup crises. However, if you suffer from hiccups frequently, we recommend visiting your doctor. It is best to rule out any underlying conditions that may be behind the hiccups.
These recipes are easy to prepare and will be good for you if you're feeling recharged:
