Side stitches occur frequently in daily life, especially during vigorous exercise. While not dangerous, they cause excruciating pain with each breath, making them unbearable.
Also known as acute costal pain, modern medical research confirms that a side-splitter is caused by spasmodic contractions of certain muscles involved in breathing. It can be triggered by prolonged lack of physical activity, extremely cold weather, or excessive sweating leading to low sodium chloride levels in the body. After experiencing a side-splitter, try the following methods; seek medical attention if necessary.
Method One: Raise the affected arm and stretch it toward the opposite side. While stretching, take a deep breath, hold it, and maintain for several seconds.
Method Two: While the person isn't expecting it, tap the middle of their back with your palm. Note: The tapping should not be too low—aim above the waist—and use moderate force.Simultaneously shout loudly to startle the person, causing the trapped air in their chest to disperse.
Method 3: Place your forearm under the person's armpit and firmly lift upward. With your other hand, grasp their wrist and pull downward. Alternate lifting and pulling 3 to 6 times.