Be it a loud sneeze or a wide mouthed yawn or even a little passing of err…gas, it is common to everyone and happens involuntarily. But, doing it at the wrong moment or when in company can be a source of ridicule for the rest of your life!

However, if you know you are prone to one or more of these problems, which are a huge embarrassment to you then here's how you can fix it.

1. Hic..Hic..Hiccup

You gulped a glass of water in a hurry, or you just sucked in a lot of air and suddenly you start hiccupping.

More than embarrassing, it can be quite irritating, when despite repeated attempts it does not go.

Hiccups occur when the diaphragm - the layer separating the abdomen from the chest contracts. It can be triggered by gulping water or eating spicy food or even anxiety and stress.

What to Do

• Drink cold water or cold milk immediately.
• Divert your thoughts.

2. Ah..Ah..Ahchooo

A sneeze definitely does not indicate that someone is thinking about you, especially when it happens in a no-holds barred fashion in public.

It is just your body's way of expurging germs and bacteria. However, a continuous bout of sneezing can be an indication of allergy.

What to Do

• Keep a kerchief handy.
• Avoid dusty areas or places with allergens.

3. Yawwwwn

A yawning person often sets you yawning too. It is like a chain reaction. But why does it happen? Because it tickles the sleep area of your brain.

But, what causes yawning?

Yawning is an involuntary reflex action. However doctors and scientists alike are clueless about its purpose.

However, it is a common occurance when you are sleepy, tired or simply fatigued.

What to Do

• The kerchief is your saviour, yet again.
• Whenever you feel like yawning, divert your thoughts onto something pleasant.

4. Tummy Growl

Your tummy has got a voice of its own. It will growl when you are hungry and even when you are full. But when it happens in front of strangers, you just wished it shut up.

But why does it growl?

The movement of food within the small intestines causes these sounds. The faster the movement, the louder the growling.

However, it can be avoided.

What to Do

• Alter your lifestyle. Eat on time and in moderation.
• Go easy on heavy food.

5. Burping

Sure the food was tasty and burping in Indian tradition is considered a sign of compliment. But in a social situation it can put you in an embarrassing spot.

So what causes you to burp?

A burp or a belch is the sound of gas leaving your body. When we have food we also tend to swallow some air. These air bubbles need a way to escape.

Since gas is lighter, it travels from the stomach, up the oesophagus and comes out as a burp.

What to Do

• Realise that it is normal to burp and is unavoidable. But when it happens in a social situation, do not forget to cover your mouth and of course excuse yourself.