When hiccups won't go away: 10 smart tips

• Breathe out slowly and hold your breath

Then take a deep breath in, hold it for about 20 seconds, and finally exhale slowly and relaxed. Holding your breath raises the carbon dioxide level in the blood, which can help calm the diaphragm.

• Drink cold water

Drink a glass of very cold water quickly in small sips, preferably straight from the fridge. The cold stimulates the vagus nerve in the throat area and can help relax the diaphragm. Some people swear by bending forward and drinking upside down.

• Breathe into a paper bag

Quietly breathe into and out of a paper bag several times in succession to intentionally raise the carbon dioxide level in your blood. This soothes the nerves that control the diaphragm. Do not use this method for too long to avoid dizziness or fainting.

• Pull on your tongue

Gently pull the tip of your tongue. This stimulus activates the vagus nerve, which runs to the diaphragm and can have a relaxing effect.

• Pull your knees to your chest: bring your knees to your chest

Lie on your back, pull your knees as close to your chest as possible and press your hands into the floor beside your body. This position relieves diaphragm spasms through gentle pressure on the abdominal cavity.

• Get startled

Ask someone to give you a brief surprise at an unexpected moment. The sudden startle affects nerve impulses in the brain, which often interrupts hiccups. Important: you should be relaxed so the surprise effect works.

• Bite or suck on a lemon

Suck on a fresh slice of lemon or bite into it gently. The strong acidity stimulates the taste buds and distracts the nerves, which can make the hiccups disappear.

• Gargle with cold water

Gargle briefly with cold water. The cold further stimulates the vagus nerve in the back of the throat and thus interrupts the hiccup trigger.

• Gently close and press on your eyes

Close your eyes and press gently with your fingertips on the closed lids for about 15 seconds. This exercise slows the pulse and breathing, which in turn can calm the diaphragm.

• Open your mouth wide and take a deep breath

Open your mouth wide and inhale deeply into the throat. This stretch stimulates the nerves that control the diaphragm and often provides quick relief.