Being a common condition faced by millions of people all over the world on a daily basis, treatment of hiccups has many aspects including traditional folk remedies based on popular beliefs, home based methods and medical practices. A hiccup is generally a single or a multiple spasms of the breathing diaphragm spaced over a short span of time which may or may not be accompanied by movement of the shoulders, abdomen and throat. Hiccups may also result in chirpy squeak sound that is caused by rapid inhalation due to the spasms. This condition is known as synchronous diaphragmatic flutter in medical terms and is generally corrected after a small interval of time on its own accord.
Home Based Remedies For Hiccups
There are numerous home remedies for hiccups treatment some of which are based on traditional practices whereas others have scientific background to them. There are some methods which attempt to retain the carbon dioxide in the body which tend to inhibit the spasms in the diaphragm. Holding the breath back for a small time intends to achieve this which results in stopping of the hiccups. The other methods attempt to stimulate two nerves running from the brain right up to the stomach called the nasopharynx and the vagus nerve which lead to cessation of the spasms. A quick glass of water can stop the spasm immediately. Other methods like having someone to frighten the individual to divert attention, biting and pulling the tongue, firmly biting a piece of lemon, gargling with ginger water and sniffing salts also affect these nerves to immediately bring the spasms to a halt. The use of corn syrup for children and placing a piece of sugar candy on the reverse side of the tongue are common home remedies that have been known to be effective in this condition.
Medical Practices for Treatment Of Hiccups
These spasms are not a serious or life threatening condition in most cases and often stop within a short span of time without the requirement of any specialized hiccups treatment. The home remedies are sufficient in majority of cases to arrest the spasms. However there are certain medical conditions that can result in prolonged period of hiccups caused by various reasons including metabolic diseases, diabetes, kidney malfunction and electrolyte imbalance. In these situations medical assistance is required to effectively deal with such continuous hiccups. CND disorders, infection as in pneumonia and LCD and nerve damage or irritations have the potential of aggravating the condition seriously. Chlorpromazine (Thorazine) is the most common medication that is prescribed by doctors in case of continuous spasms. haloperidol (Haldol) and metoclopramide (Reglan) are two other formulas that have been recommended by most physicians for this condition. Sedatives, analgesic, stimulants and muscle relaxants also have the ability to alleviate continuous hiccups in many circumstances. Baclofen which is an anti-spasmodic medicine may be required in cases where the body is resistant to other medications. For cases that have a prolonged history of continuous and serious conditions of this nature, even a Phrenic nerve surgery may have to be resorted to as the ultimate solution.
For all the methods of hiccups treatment it is essential to first differentiate between normal small scale spasms that cease on their own and continuous ones that are caused due to other medical conditions at the earliest. Checking whether the affected individual has had anything hot and spicy immediately prior to the occurrence is another great idea to ascertain the actual nature of the condition. Too much of carbonated beverages and exposure to fumes may also be the cause. It is advisable to check with the individual regarding past treatment methods that have been effective before deciding on the remedial measures.