How to Get Rid of Persistent Hiccups

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By Sue Teresa Tan
eHow Contributing Writer

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No one really knows why we get hiccups except that they are caused by spasms of the diaphragm, followed by closure of the vocal cords. This produces the "hic" sounds we hear. Causes of these spasms may be eating too much or too fast, drinking a fizzy beverage, drinking alcohol, sudden emotional excitement or stress, smoking, sudden changes in stomach temperature from drinking hot and then cold beverages (or vice versa) and even a cold shower. Usually, bouts of hiccups last for a few minutes and may not need any treatment. If hiccups persist for more than 24 hours, there may be an underlying disease that requires medical attention. But there's no harm in trying any of these popular remedies.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

1 tsp. ginger juice
1 tsp. honey
1 tsp. lime juice
Pepper

Step 1

Mix ginger juice, honey, lime juice and a pinch of pepper in a small bowl.
Step 2

Spoon and lick a tiny bit, off and on, until hiccups stop.
Step 3

If this does not work, try eating a spoonful of peanut butter. Some find that eating a sticky substance will help stop a persistent bout of hiccups.
Step 4

Another option is to get a wedge of fresh lime and slowly suck on the juice.
Step 5

You can also try slowly sipping a glass of warm water or ice water.
Step 6

Sucking on a small piece of fresh ginger is believed to relieve recurring hiccups.
Step 7

If all else fails, visit your doctor to get tested for any underlying disease. Medicines to relax your diaphragm muscle or antacids may also be used to treat acid reflux or stomach distention.

Tips & Warnings

Reflexology may also do wonders for hiccups. Try pressing the crevice between your nose and upper lip for about 30 seconds.
Hold your breath for as long as you can. It is thought that the expanding lungs push the diaphragm down, releasing any air trapped between the diaphragm and the stomach.
Try pulling your knees up to your chest or leaning forward to compress the chest.
Do the "Valsalva maneuver"--pushing air out but holding your throat and your voice box closed, as though you were straining on the toilet.
Avoid eating hot and spicy foods to minimize esophageal irritation.