Hiccups won't stop? Doctors share a simple trick that may help get rid of them

Hiccups can be one of the most irritating little problems. A sudden hic sound appearing repeatedly can interrupt conversations, meals and even sleep. While a few hiccups usually disappear on their own, getting rid of stubborn hiccups can sometimes feel like an impossible task. From drinking water to holding your breath, people try countless remedies, but doctors suggest that understanding what causes hiccups may help find better ways to calm them.

Why do hiccups happen?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, hiccups are repeated spasms of the diaphragm, accompanied by a hic sound caused by the sudden closing of the vocal cords.

The diaphragm is a thin, dome-shaped muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen. It moves downward when a person breathes in and upward while breathing out. During a hiccup episode, the diaphragm suddenly pulls downward between breaths, causing a quick intake of air. At the same time, the glottis, the space between the vocal cords, suddenly closes to prevent more air from entering, creating the familiar hic sound.


The Cleveland Clinic noted that there is often no obvious reason behind occasional hiccups. However, certain triggers may increase the chances of experiencing them.

Common triggers include:
- Eating too much or too quickly
- Consuming spicy foods or foods that are extremely hot or cold
- Drinking carbonated beverages
- Swallowing excessive air, also known as aerophagia
- Smoking tobacco or cannabis
- Drinking alcohol-containing beverages

What causes persistent hiccups?

While most hiccups are harmless and temporary, persistent or difficult-to-stop hiccups can sometimes be linked to underlying health conditions.

The Cleveland Clinic reported that medical causes of prolonged hiccups may include gastrointestinal problems such as GERD or gastritis. Conditions affecting the central nervous system, including stroke, Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis, may also trigger persistent hiccups.

Other possible causes include lung-related conditions such as pneumonia, pulmonary embolism and pleurisy. Tumours or lesions, including mediastinal tumours, oesophageal cancer and pancreatic cancer, can also be associated with prolonged hiccups.

Certain metabolic conditions that affect nerve signalling, such as uremia and hypocalcemia, along with infections like flu, shingles and herpes simplex, may also play a role.

How to stop hiccups?

Michigan doctor suggests tongue trick

Dr Michael Rowe, who owns and operates SpineCare Decompression and Chiropractic Centre in Michigan, shared a simple technique that may help calm hiccups.

In a video, he explained the tongue and tongue pull method, which involves stimulating the vagus nerve to potentially help relax diaphragm spasms. The technique begins by opening the mouth as wide as possible and sticking the tongue straight out. Dr Rowe suggested holding this position for around 3 to 5 seconds and repeating it 10 to 15 times.


He explained that this may help calm the spasms responsible for hiccups. If the method appears to help, it can be repeated. Dr Rowe also suggested taking the technique further by gently pulling the tongue. After washing hands, a person can hold the tip of their tongue and pull it forward comfortably while maintaining the stretch for 3 to 5 seconds. This can be repeated until the hiccups settle.

Another doctor shares kitchen hacks for hiccups

Dr Mehmet Oz, a heart surgeon, also shared his methods for dealing with hiccups on Instagram. In his video, he demonstrated several everyday remedies that may distract the body from hiccup spasms.

Lemon Juice
One method involved squeezing lemon juice directly onto the tongue. Dr Oz explained that the sour sensation may distract from hiccups, while also noting that citric acid may not be ideal for teeth.

Vinegar
He also tried sipping a small amount of vinegar, explaining that while it may distract from hiccups, the taste can be unpleasant.

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A post shared by Dr. Oz (@dr_oz)

Hot Sauce
Another remedy involved adding a few drops of hot sauce. According to Dr Oz, the spicy sensation may shock hiccups away, although the downside is the burning sensation.

Peanut Butter
He also suggested trying half a spoon of peanut butter, explaining that it may interrupt swallowing and breathing patterns. He noted that this method had no major downside and added that it was enjoyable as well.

While occasional hiccups usually resolve naturally, persistent hiccups that continue for an extended period may require medical attention. Understanding possible triggers and trying safe techniques recommended by healthcare professionals may help provide relief when those annoying hiccups refuse to go away.