Hiccups have a funny way of showing up when you least expect them—during a meeting, after a meal, or right when your baby finally falls asleep. If you’ve ever wondered how to get rid of hiccups quickly and safely, you’re not alone.
Hiccups happen when the diaphragm suddenly contracts, causing that familiar “hic” sound. The good news? Most hiccups are harmless and can be stopped easily—whether you’re an adult or dealing with hiccups in babies or newborns.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to get rid of hiccups fast, explain what works (and what doesn’t), and share safe, pediatric-approved tips for babies and newborns.
What Causes Hiccups?
Before learning how to stop hiccups, it helps to know why they happen in the first place.
Common Causes of Hiccups
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Eating too fast or overeating
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Drinking carbonated beverages
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Sudden temperature changes
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Acid reflux or indigestion
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Swallowing air while eating or crying
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Overstimulation of the diaphragm nerve
In babies and newborns, hiccups are even more common—and usually completely normal.
How to Get Rid of Hiccups Fast (For Adults)
If you’re looking for how to get rid of hiccups fast, try one of these proven methods.
1. Control Your Breathing
Breathing techniques help calm the diaphragm.
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Hold your breath for 10–20 seconds
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Breathe slowly into a paper bag (not plastic)
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Practice deep belly breathing
2. Drink Water the Smart Way
Water helps reset the hiccup reflex.
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Sip cold water slowly
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Drink from the opposite side of the glass
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Gargle with cold water
3. Use the Sugar Trick
A classic remedy that actually works.
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Place ½ teaspoon of sugar on your tongue
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Let it dissolve slowly before swallowing
4. Stimulate the Vagus Nerve
This nerve controls hiccups.
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Gently pull on your tongue
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Swallow a teaspoon of honey or peanut butter
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Bite into a lemon or taste something sour
How to Get Rid of Hiccups in Babies and Newborns
Hiccups in babies can worry parents, but they’re usually harmless. Still, knowing how to get rid of hiccups in babies and newborns safely is important.
Are Hiccups Dangerous for Babies?
No. In most cases, hiccups do not hurt babies or affect breathing.
How to Get Rid of Hiccups in a Newborn (Safe Methods)
When dealing with how to get rid of hiccups in newborn, safety comes first.
1. Burp the Baby
Trapped air is the most common cause.
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Burp during and after feeding
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Keep baby upright for 10–15 minutes
2. Adjust Feeding Position
Poor feeding posture can cause air swallowing.
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Hold baby at a slight angle
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Ensure proper latch during breastfeeding
3. Offer a Pacifier
Sucking can relax the diaphragm and stop hiccups.
4. Try Gentle Movement
Light rocking or walking while holding your baby can help.
Avoid startling your baby, giving water, or using home remedies meant for adults.
How to Get Rid of Hiccups in Babies (Older Than Newborns)
For parents searching how to get rid of hiccups baby, here are gentle and effective options:
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Pause feeding and burp halfway
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Check bottle nipple flow (too fast = more air)
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Keep baby calm and avoid overstimulation
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Feed smaller amounts more frequently
Hiccups usually resolve on their own within a few minutes.
When Should You Worry About Hiccups?
While rare, seek medical advice if:
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Hiccups last longer than 48 hours
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They interfere with feeding or sleep
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Your baby seems uncomfortable or distressed
FAQs: People Also Ask About Hiccups
How to get rid of hiccups fast at home?
Breath-holding, sipping cold water, or eating a small amount of sugar are fast and effective home remedies.
How to get rid of hiccups in newborns immediately?
Burping the baby and holding them upright works best. Most newborn hiccups stop on their own.
How to get rid of hiccups in a baby without medicine?
Feeding adjustments, gentle burping, and pacifiers are safe, medicine-free solutions.
Is it okay to ignore baby hiccups?
Yes. If your baby is comfortable, hiccups usually don’t need treatment.
Can hiccups be a sign of illness?
Occasionally, persistent hiccups may be linked to reflux or irritation—but this is uncommon.
Conclusion: Simple Solutions That Actually Work
Hiccups may be annoying, but they’re rarely serious. Whether you’re figuring out how to get rid of hiccups fast for yourself or safely handling hiccups in babies and newborns, the key is staying calm and using gentle, proven methods.
Most hiccups resolve naturally—but now you know exactly what to do when they don’t.
