Rajshree Vora

Hiccups are involuntary contractions of the diaphragm — the muscle that separates your chest from your abdomen and plays an important role in breathing. Each contraction is followed by a sudden closure of your vocal cords, which produces the characteristic "hic" sound.

Causes 

Most hiccups are harmless and go away on their own. Common triggers include:

Eating too quickly or overeating

Carbonated beverages

Sudden temperature changes (drinking something too hot or cold)

Spicy foods

Alcohol consumption

Excitement, stress, or anxiety

Swallowing air while eating Home remedies 

Hold your breath and 

swallow it

Drink a glass of cold water quickly

Gargle with cold water

Pull on your tongue

Swallow a teaspoon of sugar or jaggery Sujok Therapy On the highlighted area (see figure), press for five to 10 minutes with intervals of 10 minutes. Then apply dried peas on the same area and keep it on for three to four hours (hold them in place with the help of a medical adhesive tape). If there’s still no relief, consult a health care professional. 

(Rajshree Vora is an obesity consultant, dietitian and nutritionist, Sujok therapist, counsellor, and yoga therapist. You can write to her at enquiry@rajshreeyoga.com)