Hiccups
Definition:
A hiccup, also known as synchronous diaphragmatic flutter (SDF) or singultus, is an uncontrollable contraction of the diaphragm (the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen) that may repeat several times per minute.
Signs & Symptoms:
Hiccups can be described as brief, irritable spasms of the diaphragm that can occur for a few seconds or minutes. They infrequently last longer in normal individuals without any underlying medical problem.
Additionally, you may experience many symptoms that are similar to the flu. These symptoms can include fever, swollen lymph nodes, headaches, tiredness, and lack of appetite. HSV can also spread to the eyes, causing a condition called herpes keratitis. This can cause symptoms such as eye pain, discharge, and a gritty feeling in the eye.
Cause:
Hiccups occur when your diaphragm (the thin layer of muscle that separates your chest cavity from your abdomen) suddenly and involuntarily contracts (tightens).
As your diaphragm contracts, it causes you to breathe air in very quickly. The incoming air is stopped when your glottis (the opening between your vocal cords) closes suddenly, producing the characteristic sound of a hiccup.
How To Cure:
- Cold Water
You can shock your system with cold water to stop hiccups. Any kind of shock will cause distraction and will help put your hiccups to rest.
Quickly drink a glass of cold water with honey in it and your hiccups will go away immediately.
You can also gargle with cold water for 1 minute to keep hiccups at bay.
Another option is to suck on a small piece of ice for a few seconds.
- Drink Upside Down
Drinking a glass of cold water can shock your body and stop hiccups. But this remedy can be made more effective by drinking the water upside down.
Fill a glass with cold water.
Bend down at the waist and put your head down.
Drink the water from the opposite side of the glass than you would normally.
If required, repeat again.
- Hold Your Breath
Holding your breath is an age-old cure for hiccups. It increases the amount of carbon dioxide in the bloodstream, which distracts the mind and stops the cycle of hiccups.
Take a deep breath and hold it for as long as you can without letting any air out.
Exhale gently in a controlled manner.
Inhale and hold your breath again.
Do this for several cycles until the hiccups stop.
