Hiccups happen when your diaphragm contracts involuntarily and your vocal cords snap shut a moment later, making the familiar hic sound. Most bouts are brief and harmless, and they usually stop on their own without any treatment.
Simple things that may help. Some people find a bout ends sooner if they hold their breath for a short while, sip cold water slowly, or breathe slowly and calmly. These steps may interrupt the hiccup reflex, but there is no guaranteed cure for a bout of hiccups.
A safety warning. Never swallow home-made mixtures of baking soda and salt to stop hiccups. Swallowing large amounts of baking soda or salt is dangerous: the high sodium load and electrolyte imbalance can cause serious harm.
When to see a doctor. Get medical advice if hiccups last longer than 48 hours, keep coming back, or interfere with eating or sleeping. Persistent hiccups can occasionally be a sign of an underlying condition that needs checking.
This article is general information only and is not medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for personal advice.