Causes of Hiccups, Natural Treatment Sources

A hiccup is a common irritation of the diaphragmatic nerves which causes involuntary inhalation of air. A lowering of the diaphragm and the sudden closure of the vocal cords result in the characteristic hiccup sound.

Hiccups may be brought on by indigestion and drinking carbonated drinks, and can also occur during pregnancy and as a result of alcoholism. Most attacks last only a few minutes, usually with a brief interval in between attacks. Frequent, prolonged attacks of hiccups, which are extremely rare, may lead to severe exhaustion.

CAUTION
While hiccups are usually quite innocuous, they may be a feature of more serious disorders such as pleurisy, hiatus hernia, and pneumonia.

Symptoms
• prolonged episodes of hiccups may be accompanied by chest pain
• if persistent, hiccups can eventually be exhausting

TREATMENT 

Chinese Herbalism 
The cause is thought to be Heat, Cold, or Food Stagnation. Berilla stems, rhubarb, and ginger will be used to treat hiccups.

Traditional Home and Folk Remedies
Squirt some lemon juice to the back of your throat, or suck a piece of fresh lemon. Give babies a sip of water with honey.

Homoepathy 
Take one of the following remedies every 15 minutes for up to 6 doses:
• Nux vomica, for hiccups after eating, and accompanied by belching.
• Arsenicum, for hiccups which are worse after cold drinks and accompanied by a chilly feeling.
• Ignatia, when hiccups come on after emotional upset, eating, drinking, or smoking.
• Mag. phos., for a sore chest and retching.
• Cicuta, for violent, noisy hiccups.