Hiccups are those annoying sounds that we make while breathing. Hiccups are caused by involuntary spasms of the diaphragm muscle, which causes air to rush back into the lungs. When this happens, the muscles contract and repeatedly relax, causing the sound known as a hiccup.
The exact causes of hiccups are unknown, although some people have reported them after eating spicy foods or drinking alcohol. There is no cure for hiccups, but they can be prevented by avoiding the triggers or causes of hiccups. If you do get hiccups, try taking deep breaths instead of holding your breath. You may also want to avoid caffeine and nicotine.
This article deals with how to stop hiccups after drinking alcohol and the underlying causes of hiccups after drinking.
10 ways to get rid of hiccups after drinking alcohol
These are some simple and basic ways to get rid of hiccups after drinking alcohol and other beverages as well.
1. Drink water to get rid of hiccups
Drinking plenty of water before and after drinking alcohol helps prevent hiccups. Alcohol dehydrates the body, causing dehydration of the stomach lining. When the stomach lining becomes dry, it causes the muscles around the esophagus to contract, resulting in hiccups. Drinking enough water will help keep the stomach lining moist, and water will also help to flush out these toxins and keep them from accumulating. In this way, drinking water reduces the likelihood of hiccups occurring.
2. Chew gum
Chewing gum can help relieve hiccups if they occur while chewing. Try biting down on a piece of hard candy or sucking on a mint when you have hiccups. Chewing gum reduces the amount of saliva produced in the mouth, which can slow down the rate at which alcohol enters the bloodstream.
3. Eat something salty
Salty foods like pretzels, chips, popcorn, and pickles can help reduce the intensity of hiccups. Try eating some salt-free crackers or cheese.
4. Eat a spoonful of sugar
The sudden sweet taste can stimulate the nerves in the mouth and throat, helping to stop hiccups.
5. Use ice cubes
Ice cubes placed in the back of the throat can help alleviate hiccups. You may want to use two or three small ice cubes at once.
6. Avoid spicy food
Spicy foods like chilis, peppers, and onions can cause hiccups. Instead, eat milder dishes like salads, soups, and pasta because spicy foods cause the stomach to produce excess acid, which may trigger hiccups. Try eating something bland before going out to eat if you know you’re likely to get drunk. If you get drunk, try not to drink anything else until the hiccups subside.
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7. Breathe deeply
Deep breathing can help relax the diaphragm, which is responsible for controlling the movement of air in and out of the lungs. Deep breathing increases blood flow to the stomach, which can help flush out any remaining alcohol. Deep breathing can also help calm the nerves and relax the throat muscles.
8. Eat slowly
If you have been drinking alcohol for a long time, it takes about 30 minutes for the alcohol to reach the brain. Eating food while drinking alcohol slows down the rate at which the alcohol reaches the brain, giving you more control over how much you consume.
9. Lie down
Lying down for 10-15 minutes after consuming alcohol can help calm the nerves and relax the diaphragm, reducing the chances of hiccups.
10. Take a warm shower
Taking a warm shower immediately after drinking alcohol helps flush out any remaining alcohol from your system. It can help to ease the pain of hiccups. If you’re feeling particularly bad, take a cold shower instead.
The Bottom line
Hiccups are harmless and usually occur in response to a sudden change experienced by the diaphragm. Hiccups go away in time, but if they persist for a long period or occur repeatedly, then one must consult an expert physician or a doctor for medical advice. If you are not diagnosed with any medical condition, then you must follow the above-mentioned ways to get rid of hiccups after drinking alcohol.
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FAQS
What causes hiccups after drinking alcohol?
Alcohol can irritate the diaphragm, the muscle that helps with breathing, and cause hiccups. This can be due to the effects of alcohol on the central nervous system, which regulates the diaphragm.
Can hiccups after drinking alcohol be dangerous?
In most cases, hiccups after drinking alcohol are not dangerous and will go away on their own. However, if you have hiccups that persist for a long time, it is best to see a doctor to rule out any underlying health issues.
Is there a way to prevent hiccups after drinking alcohol?
To prevent or get rid of hiccups after drinking alcohol, you can try to drink slowly, avoid carbonated drinks, and eat before or while you drink. You can also try to drink water in between drinks to stay hydrated and avoid irritating the diaphragm.
Can drinking alcohol regularly cause persistent hiccups?
Drinking alcohol regularly can cause irritation to the diaphragm, which can lead to persistent hiccups. It’s important to drink in moderation and maintain a balanced diet to reduce the risk of developing persistent hiccups.
Can drinking cold water help stop hiccups after alcohol?
Drinking cold water can help stop hiccups in some cases, as the sudden change in temperature can stimulate the nerves in the throat and mouth.
Can hiccups after drinking alcohol indicate a more serious underlying condition?
In rare cases, hiccups after drinking alcohol can indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as acid reflux or an infection. If your hiccups persist for a long time, it’s important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
