Quick cure for hiccups: what helps

A hiccup is a sudden involuntary contraction of the breathing muscle beneath the lungs, followed by quick closure at the voice box. Eating quickly, swallowing air, fizzy drinks, alcohol, a large meal, sudden temperature changes, or strong emotions can trigger short-lived episodes. Reflux or irritation in the upper digestive tract can also contribute; read about [Acid Reflux](/conditions/acid-reflux/) and [Gastritis](/conditions/gastritis/).

Sit upright and breathe slowly through your nose. Take small, steady sips of cool water, pause between sips, and avoid gulping. Loosen tight clothing around your abdomen and stop eating for a short while if a meal triggered the episode. Do not frighten yourself, swallow unsafe objects, or use methods that make breathing difficult. If episodes return, note foods, drinks, medicines, and body position around the onset; this can help a clinician look for reflux or another trigger.

Arrange medical advice if hiccups continue for more than two days, keep returning, disturb sleep, or make eating, drinking, or breathing difficult. Seek urgent help for hiccups with severe chest or abdominal pain, confusion, weakness, vomiting blood, or serious breathing trouble. Persistent symptoms may need assessment for an underlying digestive, nerve, chest, or medicine-related cause.

Could reflux, gastritis, or a medicine be contributing? What warning symptoms should I watch for? Which changes to meals, drinks, or posture are sensible for me?