HICCUPS or hitchiks are not uncommon to all of us, we would have gotten it at some point in our life. For some people, though, it crops at the most inopportune times. Often, most people drink water to try to resolve the issue. There was one Bollywood movie titled Hitchki, in which Rani Mukherjee plays a teacher who gets hiccups due to Tourette Syndrome. For some people, the problem is not as severe. However, if you find a hiccup as an issue, here is an explanation of what it is and what you can do to resolve it.
What are Hiccups
Hiccups are involuntary contractions of our diaphragm that result in us making a strange sound through our mouth, which is noticeable to people around us. The vocal chords close up when the diaphragm muscles contract and that’s what creates the sound.
There’s no telling what triggers them. Sometimes, it is a large and spicy meal. Even aerated or soft drinks can trigger hiccups in a few cases. Stress and exposure to sudden temperature changes also trigger hiccups in a few people. We are referring to the regular hiccups here. It most often resolves in a while. Possibly, it can trouble you for a brief period despite your attempt to stop it. Even then, it is only rarely that people have hiccups lasting more than a few minutes. But, in some rare cases, hiccups can continue to occur regularly and last longer. These could be due to underlying reasons such as nerve damage, central nervous system disorder, metabolic disorder, or even some prescription medications that can give side effects. Such hiccups need medical attention. Hence in such rare cases, doctor consultation is a must.
How can you stop the hiccups?
Sometimes, a change of posture to relax the diaphragm can stop the hiccups. You could also try some slow breathing techniques to relax the mind and body, and that aids in getting rid of hiccups. This technique helps because the respiratory system gets disrupted through slow breathing to resolve muscle spasms. Holding the breath for a few seconds after a deep inhalation also helps resolve hiccups. You could also try breathing into a paper bag or drinking ice or warm water to see which resolves the hiccups. One of the sweetest home remedies for hiccups is to eat a spoonful of sugar. Keep the sugar in your mouth for a few minutes and then swallow it. This technique helps because it stimulates your throat and relaxes your vocal cords. Some people say gargling helps, while others suggest sucking a lemon.
There is an interesting Ayurvedic remedy. Take a spoonful of black pepper powder and inhale it. Since this action is likely to induce a sneeze, the sneeze can encounter hiccups. You could also try chewing on a small piece of ginger and swallowing the juice. For kids, you could try offering sweetened curds. Ideally, relax and use any distraction technique rather than obsess over it, hiccups should go on their own.
When to see a doctor?
If the hiccups last more than 48 hours, or if they disrupt your regular life and sleep, then you should see a doctor. Hiccups may be due to conditions such as ‘Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) stroke, multiple sclerosis, etc. The doctor may prescribe laboratory, imaging, or endoscopic tests if required. Medications can relieve the problem in most cases. If not doctors may prescribe further tests to diagnose any underlying issues.
However, in the long term, it is best to follow some lifestyle changes to ensure they do not become a regular affair. You could try these changes:
- Eat smaller portions
- Eat slowly and do not gobble food
- Avoid large and spicy meals
- Avoid carbonated drinks
- Practice breathing techniques daily
- Practice Yoga asanas like Surya Namaskar
Following these tips can help control the occurrence of hiccups to a great extent. However, since they are natural and triggers are not identified conclusively, you may still get the occasional hiccups. The key is to not let them interfere with your regular activities, and carry on.
Waiting for your feedback on this blog.
Anil Malik
Mumbai, India
4th March 2024