Hold your breath: Inhale deeply to expand your stomach fully, clench your teeth, and hold for 5-6 seconds. Exhale slowly and repeat if needed, avoiding prolonged breath-holding. Why it works: Hiccups result from diaphragm spasms that close the glottis during inhalation. This technique contracts the diaphragm to prevent spasms.
Try hot or cold water: Sip a glass of very cold or hot water quickly—or while looking down. The sudden temperature shift triggers muscle contractions to halt hiccups.
Calm the vagus nerves: Irritation here can cause hiccups. Stimulate them with a firm tongue pull or by pressing your eyeballs firmly with your palms for 30 seconds. Note: See a doctor if hiccups last over 48 hours, as they may signal abscesses, digestive, or nervous issues.
Thanks to Pascal Dureau, general practitioner.
