How to Cure Hiccups

Hiccups are a bit of a phenomenon in the medical world. Though many times the hiccups occur because of stomach issues, there are multiple factors that may cause hiccups. However, there are a number of ways to cure hiccups to give you relief from this particularly pesky, yet usually minor malady.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Peppermint Candy Cane
• Glass of water
• Place to relax
• Magnesium

1. 
   Cure hiccups with peppermint

   Suck on a candy cane. Because licking a candy cane takes a bit of concentration, it distracts you from the hiccups. In addition, peppermint is excellent for calming stomach muscles, which could be a contributing factor to your hiccups. If you don't have candy canes on hand, anything with real peppermint oil is said to be an excellent substitute for curing hiccups.

2. 
   Cure hiccups by drinking water upside down

   Drink a glass of water upside down. Getting rid of hiccups can also be a battle of mind over matter. So, fill up a glass halfway with water and attempt to drink the water from the opposite side of the glass (see picture) without spilling it. This may take all of your concentration, which will help cure the hiccups!

3. Mellow out. Lie down or at the very least, sit comfortably somewhere and close your eyes. Begin with your feet and consciously relax every single muscle, moving up your legs, to your stomach, hands, arms, throat, and head. If you concentrate hard, breathe regularly, and relax, you may soon realize you have cured your hiccups.

4. Take magnesium supplements. Some people swear by taking magnesium supplements or choosing an antacid that contains magnesium to cure hiccups. If you choose this as your method to cure hiccups, be sure you are taking no more than the recommended dosage.

Tips & Warnings

• If you can, simply falling asleep will cure hiccups.
• Holding your breath, having someone scare you, and gulping down water are also well known methods, though they do not always do the trick to cure hiccups.
• Hiccups can be a sign of other more serious conditions, see a medical professional if the persist longer than a couple of days.

[trcountry]

on 10/22/2009 My doctor said to try Fennel (liquid herbal exttract)
about $12.00 dollars @ health food store.I put 5 to 10 drops in water or hot tea.Also good for upset stomach WORKS GREAT I HAD HICCUPS FOR 12 HOURS!!! half glass later of Fennal & water GONE!!!

[Pinkraider]

on 1/14/2009 I will have to try the last tip!

[sharishops]

on 1/5/2009 I always fought this as a child! I think I've tried all of these but I could never master that drinking water upside down one!