Have you got the hiccups again? Here's the rundown of remedies...

Some people are prone to getting hiccups more often than others. 

The average nuisance is about five times per year throughout your life. While there’s no one surefire cure – we’ve been trying these remedies for centuries and some of them will help: 

• Holding your breath: This most common first attempt can help to interrupt the spasm you’re experiencing. It will likely take more than one try.

• Sugar: Overloading the nerve endings in the mouth with a sweet sensation may do the trick. Put the sugar on the back of the tongue.

• Put your fingers in your ears: This stimulates the nerve endings that lead to the culprit – your spastic vagus.

• Fright: It can be effective at distracting your body and reflexes from the spasm.

• Water: Drinking water can interrupt the cycle. Gargling with water might work even better.

• Pull your tongue: It’s not easy, but stick it out and give it a yank. It’s worth a try.

• Tickling: If you can stand it, a laughing attack can throw the rhythmic hiccups off and maybe even stop them.