Almost everyone has experienced the annoying and sometimes embarrassing phenomena of hiccups at least once in their lives.

Hiccups are the sudden, involuntary contractions of the diaphragm muscles that can occur due to a variety of reasons such as eating too quickly, overeating, drinking carbonated beverages, excitement, anxiety, or as a side effect of medication. While hiccups are usually harmless and temporary, they can be irritating and disrupt regular activities. In this article, we will explore 10 effective ways to stop hiccups.

1. Hold your breath

Holding your breath is one of the most popular techniques to stop hiccups. Take a deep breath and hold it for as long as possible. This increases the carbon dioxide levels in your bloodstream, which helps to relax the diaphragm and stop hiccups.

Exhale slowly and repeat the process a few times until the hiccups stop.

2. Drink water

Dehydration can cause hiccups, so drinking water may help to stop them. Take small sips of water or drink a glass of water quickly without pausing for breath.

The water swallows stimulate the muscles and nerves that are responsible for controlling the diaphragm muscles.

3. Breathe into a paper bag

Another method to increase carbon dioxide levels in the blood is by breathing into a paper bag. Breathe in and out into a paper bag to build up carbon dioxide levels in your bloodstream, which could help to relax the diaphragm muscles and stop hiccups.

Be careful not to suffocate yourself while doing this.

4. Swallow granulated sugar

Swallowing granulated or powdered sugar can stimulate the vagus nerve that runs from your brain to your gut and is responsible for controlling hiccups. Take a teaspoon of sugar and let it dissolve in your mouth before swallowing it.

This technique can work best for people with mild hiccups.

5. Gargle with icy water

Gargling with icy water can shock the phrenic nerve, a nerve that controls the diaphragm and influences hiccups. Fill a glass with icy water and gargle it for a few seconds before swallowing it. Repeat the process a few times until the hiccups stop.

6. Pinch your nose

Pinching your nose while swallowing can cause your pharynx to tense up, and in doing so, it can stimulate the vagus nerve and stop hiccups. With your nose pinched, swallow a mouthful of water in one go.

7. Apply pressure to your diaphragm

Applying pressure to your diaphragm muscle can also help stop hiccups. Place your hands on your stomach and press down slightly. Breathe slowly and deeply, pushing your belly out as you inhale. Hold your breath for a few seconds then exhale slowly.

Repeat this two to three times until the hiccups stop.

8. Use an ice pack

Using an ice pack or a cold compress on your chest can also aid the cessation of hiccups. The cold temperature can stimulate the phrenic nerve and stop the hiccups.

Apply the ice pack or cold compress for a few minutes, remove it for a few minutes, and repeat the process until the hiccups stop.

9. Try acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that involves the insertion of thin needles on specific points of the body to stimulate its natural healing abilities. Acupuncture can help to regulate the body’s energy flow and stop hiccups.

10. Take a deep breath and exhale slowly

Take a deep breath and exhale slowly while focusing on your breathing can help regulate your diaphragm muscle and stop hiccups. Breathe in slowly through your nose and count to five.

Hold your breath for a few seconds and then exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat the process a few times until the hiccups stop.