After a few drinks, laughter and fun often escalate. Unfortunately, so can the hiccups. Alcohol-induced hiccups are not only annoying but also embarrassing, especially during a night out. Although they’re usually harmless, knowing how to stop them quickly can be incredibly useful.

What Causes Drunk Hiccups?

Understanding the source makes it easier to treat the symptom effectively.

Alcohol can irritate the vagus nerve, which controls the diaphragm.
Swallowing air during rapid drinking or laughing contributes to muscle spasms.
Carbonation in mixed drinks or beer may introduce excess gas into the stomach.
Stomach distension puts pressure on internal organs, causing hiccups to start.

Each of these factors can independently or collectively trigger this involuntary reaction.

Step 1: Stop Drinking Immediately

Once hiccups begin, consuming more alcohol often worsens the issue.

Set your glass aside and give your system a break.
Resist the urge to sip anything until the spasms subside.
Alcohol may further stimulate the affected nerves.

Giving your digestive system time to settle can prevent prolonged episodes.

Step 2: Take Deep, Slow Breaths

Controlling your breathing pattern often calms the diaphragm.

Inhale deeply through your nose for five full seconds.
Hold your breath briefly, then exhale gently through pursed lips.
Repeat the sequence several times, staying calm and focused.

Slow oxygen intake helps regulate nerve signals responsible for the hiccup reflex.

Step 3: Sip Ice-Cold Water

A cold shock to the throat often distracts your nervous system.

Take small, measured sips rather than gulping.
Hold each swallow in your mouth for a moment before swallowing.
Let the chill relax your irritated nerves.

This method can interrupt the cycle by resetting your body’s rhythm.

Step 4: Suck on a Lemon Slice

Sour flavors stimulate salivation and can divert your brain’s attention.

Bite into a fresh lemon wedge.
Allow the juice to linger in your mouth briefly.
Avoid chasing it with alcohol or sugary mixers.

This sensory jolt may override the hiccup signal being sent by the brain.

Step 5: Hold Your Breath and Swallow

Combining breath retention with swallowing can manually reset your diaphragm.

Take a deep breath and hold it firmly.
Swallow while holding the air in your lungs.
Try repeating this maneuver three times in succession.

This method is particularly effective for hiccups that occur during intoxication.

Step 6: Gently Press on Your Diaphragm

Applying light pressure to the diaphragm may help stop spasms.

Lean slightly forward while sitting or standing.
Place your palm just beneath the sternum.
Press inward with moderate pressure for several seconds.

Altering your posture can change how the diaphragm moves.

Step 7: Use Sugar as a Natural Remedy

Granulated sugar activates the vagus nerve in a way that often stops hiccups.

Place a teaspoon of dry sugar under your tongue.
Let it dissolve slowly without chewing or swallowing too quickly.
Wait a minute before drinking or eating anything else.

The sudden rush of sweetness distracts the brain and may interrupt hiccup signals.

Step 8: Stimulate the Back of the Throat

Triggering the gag reflex very gently can help override hiccups.

Use a cotton swab or your finger to tap the back of the tongue (lightly).
Stop immediately if nausea occurs or if the action becomes uncomfortable.
This tactic should only be used cautiously.

It interrupts the hiccup reflex by overwhelming your body with a stronger stimulus.

What to Avoid

Not every popular trick works—some actions may actually make things worse.

Don’t keep drinking alcohol to “wash away” the problem.
Avoid eating spicy food during a hiccup episode.
Refrain from carbonated beverages until the issue stops.
Don’t hold your breath excessively—it may cause dizziness or discomfort.

Be gentle and patient; hiccups often resolve within minutes.

When to Seek Help

While drunk hiccups are usually short-lived, prolonged or painful spasms may require medical attention.

Seek assistance if hiccups persist beyond two hours.
Consult a professional if you feel chest pain or difficulty breathing.
Chronic hiccups after frequent drinking could point to gastrointestinal issues.

Always monitor your body’s signals carefully, especially after consuming alcohol.

Prevent Future Occurrences

Making a few adjustments can reduce the chances of hiccups in the future.

Drink slowly and pace yourself.
Avoid very cold or heavily carbonated beverages.
Stay hydrated between alcoholic drinks.
Eat before drinking to buffer stomach acidity.

These simple habits help keep your body in balance during social events.

Final Thoughts

Although drunk hiccups are inconvenient, they’re usually manageable with simple techniques. Whether you use cold water, breath control, or lemon juice, relief is often just a minute away. Act early, stay calm, and avoid panicking—the hiccups will pass. With a bit of patience and knowledge, you can get back to enjoying your night smoothly.