5 proven strategies to silence annoying hiccups

There is nothing more frustrating than hiccups, and one often feels helpless trying to get rid of them. There are various suggestions for remedies, and although none guarantee a 100% success rate, here are five methods that can help stop hiccups. One commonly recommended remedy is to change the breathing pattern, such as holding your breath and exhaling slowly. Also, hugging your knees while lying down can help as it puts pressure on the diaphragm and prevents it from contracting. Swallowing certain foods like sugar and peanut butter can help as they activate the vagus nerve, which stops hiccups. Drinking water 'upside down' or from the side where your fingers touch can also be helpful as cold drinks stimulate the vagus nerve. Finally, pulling on the tongue stimulates the nasopharynx, the upper part of the throat, and can help stop hiccups.