To the person who added the following paragraph to the Wikipedia article on hiccups: thank you.
(*) and yes, I know that title can be interpreted at least two ways. I meant "it's better than an old wives' tale."
"... Additionally, another respiratory remedy appears to be one of the most effective in treating persistent hiccups. One breathes out all the air that he is able to in one long exhalation then breathes in all the air he feels he possibly can in one continuous inhalation. The person then attempts to breathe in even more air in a series of short powerful puffs, until his lungs cannot hold any more. The person remains in this state for as long as he feels a small gas bubble coming at the very base of the throat, ready to be burped. Although the success rate is not 100%, many people find this method consistently works."100% of the people in my family that have tried this method (i.e. 3 people) have found it to be immediately effective, every time.
(*) and yes, I know that title can be interpreted at least two ways. I meant "it's better than an old wives' tale."
Apparently hiccups are caused by vestigial nerve signals intended for our non-existent gills:
http://blog.wired.com/wiredscience/2008/02/evolution-expla.html
It makes sense that breathing hacks are the best way to counteract them.
FWIW, what works for me is to slow my breathing way down and breath as shallowly as possible.