Health3 min
How to stop hiccups
Hiccups are a diaphragm spasm. Interrupt the rhythm. If they outlast a day, they stopped being a party trick.
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Change your breathing
Hold a comfortable breath, or breathe slowly into a paper bag held loosely — not a plastic bag sealed on the face. The point is a brief rise in carbon dioxide, not dizziness.
Reset the swallow
Sip cold water steadily, or swallow a teaspoon of sugar if you are not avoiding sugar for a medical reason. Gargling can do the same job.
Sit out the next round
Most bouts end in minutes. Pulling hard on the tongue or pressing the eyes is an old trick with a real injury risk. Skip it.
Watch for this
- Hiccups with chest pain, confusion, or a new neurological symptom need urgent care.
When to get help
Call a clinician if hiccups last more than 48 hours, or if they keep you from eating and sleeping.