Question: How can you cure the hiccups? I get them a lot.

Laura Ginesi answered on 9 Nov 2017:

Hiccups happen because the diaphragm – a great big muscle involved in breathing – suddenly makes some rhythmic spasms ( contractions). When it happens, the vocal cords snap shut making the hiccup sound.

The are a real nuisance for some people but usually go away after a bit. Do you get them often?

All kinds of things have been suggested to make them go away. Things like drinking from the wrong side of a cup – or through two straws as once. Or eating a piece of lemon. Holding your breath. Even pulling on your tongue!

Mostly these are called “old wives tales” because they don’t have a strong basis in science, but are simply things to try that have helped to take some people’s hiccups stop. It can feel horrid if they start when everyone else is quiet and can make people feel very self conscious and uncomfortable and that can be stressful I’m sure.

If they don’t go away, it could be worth speaking to your doctor or a nurse about it. They might suggest something better than I can. Did you know that the world record was an incredible 68 years!!! Wow.