How to deal with the annoyance of hiccups

DO

■ Breathe into a paper bag (but don’t put it over your head). ■ Pull your knees up to your chest and lean forward. ■ Sip ice-cold water. ■ Swallow some granulated sugar.

■ Bite on a lemon or taste vinegar. ■ Hold your breath for a short time.

DON’T

■ Drink alcoholic, fizzy or hot drinks.

■ Chew gum or smoke – it can cause you to swallow air. ■ Eat spicy food.

■ Eat food very quickly.

■ Eat or drink something very cold immediately after something hot.