New Delhi, June 11 (IANS). Hiccups are a problem that almost every person must have experienced at one time or the other. Many times hiccups start while eating or in sudden situations like laughing or crying. Usually it stops on its own within a few minutes, but sometimes it persists for a longer time and makes the person uncomfortable.
According to medical experts, hiccups are related to the diaphragm, an important muscle of the body. The diaphragm is a muscle present below the lungs, which helps in the process of breathing. When this muscle suddenly contracts, the passageway near the vocal cords immediately closes. For this reason, a sound like “hic” comes out, which we call hiccups. There are many easy home remedies to prevent this.
Experts say that drinking cold water slowly is the simplest way to stop hiccups. When cold water goes down the throat, it signals the nerves present there. This gives a new message to the brain and breaks the uncontrolled cycle that causes hiccups. The special thing is that it is considered more beneficial to drink water in small sips instead of gulping it all at once. This helps the coordination between the throat and diaphragm to become normal again.
Apart from this, holding the breath for a few seconds is also a very easy method. According to scientists, when a person takes a deep breath and holds it for a while, the amount of carbon dioxide in the body increases slightly. This change signals the brain to control the movement of the diaphragm, which can stop the hiccups.
Consumption of honey is also a relief solution for some people. Honey forms a layer on the inner surface of the throat. This provides relief to the nerves in the throat and reduces the signals causing hiccups. Apart from this, honey contains natural elements that help in soothing the throat.
Keeping a small amount of sugar in the mouth can stop hiccups. The reason behind this is believed to be that small grains of sugar give a new sensory signal to the nerves of the mouth and throat. When the brain’s attention shifts to this new signal, the reflex that causes the hiccup is weakened. However, diabetic patients should exercise caution before adopting this remedy.
–IANS
PK/AS
