Hoquets: the study which proves that a simple straw can free you at 92 %
It all started with a tiktok where a neuroscientist is surprised that a such promising study went unnoticed. Behind the viral video, a medical device with an improbable name, but with spectacular results.
The hiccup, this guest that we never invited
We all know him: he arises without warning, punctuates our ridiculous “hic” sentences and sometimes resists all our grandmother tips. Hold your breathing? Drink the head down? Breathe in a paper bag? Yes, it works … sometimes. But as researchers remind you of Jama Network Openthese methods suffer “blurred instructions, inconstant performance and low efficiency“.
Behind this uncontrollable reflex hides an untimely contraction of the diaphragm, followed by the closure of the glottis. Most of the time, the phenomenon goes out of itself. But for some – especially patients with cancer or victims of neurological accidents – it becomes a real handicap. “”The hiccup is occasionally annoying for some, but for others, it considerably affects the quality of life “explains Ali Seifi, professor of neurosurgery at UT Health San Antonio.
The fisst, or how a straw puts K.-O. 92 % of hiccups
This is where the stage FisstFor Forced Inspiratory Subration and Swallow Tool. Clearly: a large rigid straw equipped with a valve, designed to force the user to suck water strongly before swallowing it. This gesture stimulates both the phrenic nerve (which commands the diaphragm) and the vagus nerve (involved in swallowing), and puts an end to the hiccups in one or two attempts.
© Jama Network
Hoquets: a special straw stops it in 92 % of cases, according to science
Tested on more than 600 volunteers recruited via a Kickstarter campaign, the system was valued from 249 participants who have completed a full questionnaire. Result : 92 % said Fisst stopped their hiccups. Better still, 91 % found it more practical than home remedies. No side effects have been reported.
Today, the device, marketed under the name of Hiccawayis already on sale in a large chain of American supermarkets. No magic: just a little physics, a lot of science … and a well thought out straw.
Prevent rather than cure: your daily anti-hostel weapons
So yes, Fisst does wonders. But it is still better to avoid getting there. Doctors recall that some simple reflexes are enough to limit the appearance of this tenacious reflex:
- Avoid too generous meals that distend the stomach;
- Reduce soft drinks, alcohol and too sudden temperature differences between food;
- Take the time to chew quietly;
- Forget the chewing gum, a big champion of air absorption;
- Beware of burning drinks that can be sneaky triggers.
With these precautions, your seizures should be spaced. And if, despite everything, a persistent “catch” is invited, there is now a solution validated by science. Failing to save your life, it may save you your next dinner in head.