Tired Of Taking Hiccups? Try Out These Ways

No one knows what causes hiccups, but the little diaphragm contractions can certainly be annoying. Hiccups can come at the most inconvenient times—just before you have to give an after-dinner toast or address the town planning commission, for instance. Here's how to get rid of them, instantly.

# Press the palm of your hand with the thumb of your other hand. The harder, the better. Alternatively, you can squeeze the ball of your left thumb between the thumb and forefinger of the right. The discomfort is a distraction that affects your nervous system and may put an end to the hiccups.

# Take a deep breath and then hold it for a while. When there’s a buildup of carbon dioxide in your lungs, your diaphragm relaxes.

# As long as you’re out of sight, stick out your tongue. This rude-looking exercise is done by singers and actors because it stimulates the opening between the vocal cords (the glottis). You breathe more smoothly, quelling the spasms that cause hiccups.

# Cup your hands around your nose and mouth, but continue breathing normally. You’ll get relief from the extra dose of carbon dioxide.

# Place a single layer of paper towel over the top of the glass, then drink through the towel. You’ll have to ‘pull’ harder with your diaphragm to suck up the water, and concentrated gulping counteracts spasmodic muscle movements.