Hiccups are involuntary contractions of the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the chest and abdomen and plays a critical role in breathing.

Sometimes the brain sends incorrect signals, causing the diaphragm to contract faster. During a spasm, the muscle presses on the lungs and pushes out air, this process is accompanied by a characteristic sound. There are many possible causes: from accidental swallowing of air to diseases of the nervous system.

There are several medical methods for stopping hiccups.

• Take a deep breath and hold your breath for 10–20 seconds. This helps restore breathing rhythm and balance the diaphragm.
• Use a paper bag to inhale and exhale. This method helps redistribute carbon dioxide levels in the blood, which can lead to fewer hiccups.
• Carry out measured breathing: take 5-7 deep breaths and exhalations. This helps eliminate diaphragm spasm and reduce the frequency of hiccups.
• Hug your knees, lean forward and hold this pose for 20-30 seconds. This exercise helps relax the diaphragm and reduce its contractions.
• Drink a glass of cold water quickly. Cold water can stimulate the vagal nerve and reduce the activity of the diaphragm.
• Suck up the ice cube. Cold can help relieve diaphragmatic spasms and reduce hiccups.
• Eat something with a strong taste or smell. A strong taste or smell can distract the brain and stop the hiccups.
• Try to induce a gag reflex. This can help balance the pressure in the stomach and reduce hiccups.
• Stick your tongue out as far as possible. This can activate the diaphragm reflex and reduce hiccups.
• Place some granulated sugar on your tongue. This can stimulate nerve receptors and reduce the frequency of contractions of the diaphragm.
• Massage the carotid artery. Gentle pressure on the carotid artery can reduce the activity of the diaphragm and stop hiccups.