SubscribeThose annoying hiccups...
Hiccups happen when the diaphragm gets irritated and contracts involuntarily.
They usually last a few minutes. Two things happen during a hiccup:
The diaphragm contracts and pulls in air
(click here for a refresher on how the diaphragm functions)
The vocal cords close to stop more air from coming in
Hiccups are harmless (unless they last for weeks or months, at which time medical attention is recommended), but annoying.
It’s not clear what causes the spasms of the diaphragm during hiccups. For this reason, a good remedy is to avoid possible triggers like:
Eating or drinking too quickly
Drinking carbonated beverages or alcohol
Eating too much
Stress
Drinking a very hot or very cold drink
Overstretching the neck
There’s also some anecdotal evidence pointing to increasing blood carbon dioxide — CO2 — levels to stop hiccups. An increase in CO2 may help the diaphragm to relax, stopping the spasms and the hiccups.
After all, CO2 is not just a waste gas. Read more here.
Some recommended ways to get rid of hiccups:
Moral of the story:
💨 Conscious breathing may help you get rid of your hiccups, while 🍴conscious eating may help avoid them!
Stay healthy, stay happy.