Other names for Hiccups

Singultus
Involuntary diaphragmatic spasms
Persistent hiccups
Diaphragm spasm

Synopsis of Hiccups

Hiccups are sudden, involuntary contractions of the diaphragm—the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen and aids in breathing. Each contraction is followed by a quick closure of the vocal cords, producing the characteristic “hic” sound. While hiccups are usually brief and harmless, they can be annoying and sometimes persistent, lasting for hours or even days in rare cases.

Common short-term triggers include:

• Eating too quickly or overeating

• Carbonated or alcoholic drinks

• Sudden temperature changes (food or environment)

• Excitement, stress, or laughter

• Swallowing air

• Spicy or irritating foods

Persistent hiccups (lasting more than 48 hours) may be linked to:

• Nerve irritation (vagus or phrenic nerve)

• Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)

• Central nervous system conditions (e.g., stroke, tumor, multiple sclerosis)

• Metabolic disorders (e.g., diabetes, kidney failure)

• Medications (e.g., steroids, tranquilizers, anesthesia)

When to see a doctor:
If hiccups last more than 48 hours, interfere with eating, sleeping, or breathing, or are accompanied by other symptoms (e.g., headache, weakness, or confusion), medical evaluation is needed to rule out underlying conditions.

Natural remedies for Hiccups

Hold Your Breath or Breathe into a Paper Bag: Increases carbon dioxide levels, which may stop spasms.

Sip Cold Water Slowly or Swallow a Teaspoon of Sugar: Stimulates the vagus nerve.

Gargle with Ice Water or Suck on a Lemon: Distracts the nervous system and interrupts the hiccup reflex.

Pull on Your Tongue or Apply Gentle Pressure to the Diaphragm: Resets breathing rhythm.

Practice Calm Breathing: Helps relax the diaphragm.

Ingredients

These raw ingredients are often used in alternative medicine to treat Hiccups

chamomile
ginger
licorice root
Peppermint
reishi mushroom
slippery elm bark
valerian root
vitamin B6
zinc
Aconite