Hiccups are a universal, common experience, we’ve all experienced them at some point. It appears suddenly and is quite annoying. But do you know exactly what causes it, how you can manage it effectively and in which case you should pay more attention to it? With the help of Dr. Teresa Milas, an otorhinolaryngologist at the Sanitas La Moraleza University Hospital, we tell you everything you need to know about hiccups and when to see your doctor, because sometimes this disorder can be a sign of something more serious.
What are hiccups and why?
hiccups occur”Repeated and sudden spasms of the diaphragmmuscle that separates the thorax from the abdominal cavity,” explains Dr. Milas. These spasms cause the vocal cords to suddenly close, causing that characteristic sound we all know. And have you ever wondered why it occurs??
The reasons are usually very simple. Eating too fast, boring foodExpose yourself to sudden changes in temperature or even experience stress They can trigger it. The exact purpose of hiccups is not entirely clear, but some scientists believe it may be an ancient reflex mechanism to protect the airways or release trapped gases in the stomach. However, in most cases, it appears to be a non-functional response that serves no beneficial purpose in the modern human body.
© Getty ImagesIs it possible to prevent hiccups?
Although you cannot completely prevent it from appearing, it is possible Reduce the likelihood of occurrence specific acceptance healthy habits. One of the most effective recommendations is to eat slowly and in adequate portions. “Eating too quickly or too much can upset the stomach, irritate the diaphragm, and trigger episodes of hiccups,” says Dr. Milas.
Avoid carbonated drinks And alcoholism is another useful strategy. “Carbonated drinks cause bloating, while alcohol can affect the nervous system, increasing the likelihood of hiccups,” he adds. Also, controlling stress and anxiety also plays an important role, since intense emotions can be a trigger for some people.
Finally, pay attention to sudden changes in temperature. Eat food or Very cold or hot drinksOr going from a warm environment to a cold environment, can irritate the diaphragm and cause hiccups, as we said
Tricks to get rid of hiccups
You must have tried home remedies to try to stop hiccups. Although science doesn’t always support these techniques, many people find them useful. D Dr. Milas shares several methods Here are some things you can try the next time you have hiccups:
1. Hold your breath
Holding your breath is a classic technique to stop hiccups. By doing this, you increase the level of carbon dioxide in the blood, which can relax the diaphragm and end the spasm. How to do it? Breathe in deeply, hold for 10 to 15 seconds, and then exhale slowly. If hiccups persist, repeat this exercise three or four times.
2. Drink cold water slowly
Drinking cold water is another effective way to soothe hiccups. Cold helps Relax the diaphragm musclesWhile small sips provide a constant stimulus that can disrupt the hiccup cycle. For best results, drink the water slowly and let your throat cool as you drink it. Some people also find it helpful to drink water while leaning forward to increase pressure on the diaphragm.
3. Try a teaspoon of sugar
This remedy works by stimulating the facial nerves with sugar sweeteners. “Sweets stimulate the nerves of the mouth, Rebooting the nervous system“explains Dr. Teresa Milas. Take a teaspoon of sugar, put it on your tongue and let it dissolve slowly. You can try putting it under your tongue for a more immediate effect.
© Getty Images4. Suck on ice cubes
Ice cold is a stimulus that can relax the diaphragm. If you have ice on hand, take a small cube and suck it for a few minutes. Throat may be affected with coldRelax the muscles involved in hiccups. If you cannot tolerate ice directly, you can wrap it in a thin cloth or drink ice water as an alternative.
5. Breathe into a paper bag
This method, although less known, is effective for some. By breathing into a paper bag, you raise the level of carbon dioxide in your blood, which can help Hiccups are disrupted. Make sure you don’t use plastic bags as it is not safe. Hold the paper bag around your nose and mouth, inhale slowly for 10 to 15 seconds, and then stop to determine if the hiccups have stopped.
6. Place a few drops of lemon or vinegar on the tongue
The acidity of lemon or vinegar stimulates the nerves in the throat, which can Stop spasms of the diaphragm. Place a few drops directly on your tongue or take a small sip. If you want, you can squeeze a slice of fresh lemon. This method is also useful for those looking for a quick fix with the ingredients they have on hand.
If the hiccups continue for more than 48 hours, you should see a doctor to find out what is causing the hiccups.
7. Stick your tongue out
Sticking your tongue out may seem like strange advice, but there’s logic behind it. This movement Relaxes throat muscles and can relieve convulsions that cause hiccups. Use your fingers to gently stick out the tongue for a few seconds. This is a simple trick that you can do anytime.
8. Perform the Valsalva maneuver
The Valsalva technique is a more elaborate but effective technique. This includes closing your mouth, covering your nose, and breathing forcefully as if you’re trying to let air out. This is the process Increases chest pressure and can prevent hiccups Restores balance to the nerves controlling the diaphragm. Do this carefully and do not exceed the force of exhalation.
9. Gently massage the neck
Can do a neck massage Relax the muscles Those associated with hiccups. Apply light pressure and circular motions along the side of your neck, just below the jawline. This massage stimulates the nerves and can be especially helpful if hiccups are caused by stress or muscle tension.
10. Change your posture
Your posture can also affect hiccups. Lean forward or bring your knees to your chest Change diaphragm pressurePrevent seizures. If you are sitting, cross your legs and try to hold that position for a few seconds. If you are standing, lean forward as if you are trying to touch your feet.
“Most of these techniques aim to stimulate the nerves or relax the diaphragm, which interrupts the hiccups cycle,” says Dr. Milas. Although they don’t always work on the first try, they can be a useful tool for managing occasional episodes.
© Adobe StockWhen should you worry about hiccups?
Although he Hiccups are usually a benign phenomenonIt may be that there are circumstances cause for concern. “When hiccups Lasts more than 48 hours, It can be related to problems with the nerves controlling the diaphragm, or metabolic, gastrointestinal or neurological disorders,” asserts Dr. Milas.
Furthermore, if hiccups appear together For symptoms such as difficulty breathing, unexplained chest pain or mental confusion, it is imperative to seek medical attention immediately. “These symptoms may indicate serious conditions, such as cardiovascular, respiratory or metabolic diseases,” he emphasized.
Don’t forget that Certain medications They can also be responsible for persistent hiccups. According to Dr. Milas, “Hiccups are a side effect of some sedatives, anesthetics, and medications for neurological conditions.”
What can a doctor do?
If hiccups persist or affect your quality of life, a doctor can help you determine their cause. Diagnosis may include a A thorough review of your medical history, Neurological and metabolic tests to rule out underlying conditions. “Treatment varies depending on the diagnosis and can range from specific medications to more advanced interventions in extreme cases,” explains the expert.
