Hiccups are an involuntary response from the diaphragm and respiratory organs and usually indicate some kind of irritation to nerves due to the consumption of carbonated drinks or reflux, for example. Hiccups can be uncomfortable, but they can be easily eliminated with some homemade measures that stimulate the vagus nerve, which is a nerve in the brain that reaches the stomach and regulates the activity of the diaphragm, being able to stop the hiccups. See 7 tips to stop hiccups.
Thus, homemade solutions to stop hiccups involve methods to increase the concentration of CO2 in the blood or to stimulate the vagus nerve. One of the homemade options to cure hiccups is to stick out your tongue and rub your eyes, as well as lying on your stomach. These two techniques stimulate the vagus nerve, which can stop hiccups. Other homemade ways to stop hiccups are:
1. Drink cold water
An excellent home remedy to cure hiccups is to drink a glass of cold water or gargle with water. In addition to water, eating crushed ice or crusty bread can also be useful ways to reduce hiccups because they stimulate the vagus nerve.
2. Breathing
Another good home remedy to cure hiccups is to breathe into a paper bag for a few minutes. In addition, holding your breath for as long as you can, can also, in most people, stop the hiccup, as it increases the concentration of CO2 in the blood and stimulates the nerves.
A more effective and permanent way to avoid hiccups is through activities such as yoga, pilates and meditation, as they help to control your breathing.
3. Vinegar or sugar
Drinking a teaspoon of vinegar or ingesting some sugar can stop the hiccup, as these two foods are able to stimulate the vagus nerve.
4. Valsava maneuver
The waltz maneuver consists of covering the nose with the hand and making force to release the air, contracting the chest. This technique is also very effective in stopping hiccups.
5. Lemon
The lemon is a great option to cure hiccups, as it is able to stimulate the nerve, causing the hiccup to stop. You can take 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, or mix the juice of half a lemon with a little water.
