Diaphragm

The diaphragm is located in the abdomen, below the lungs, and above the digestive system. The diaphragm is responsible for breathing, vomiting, helping to pass food through the oesophagus, and defecation. 

 

What is the diaphragm? 

 

The diaphragm is a large dome-shaped muscle that pulls air into the lungs and pushes air out. It also acts in expelling food when vomiting and defecating. A spasm of the diaphragm partly causes hiccups. 

 

What does the diaphragm do during breathing?

 

The diaphragm moves involuntarily, but it can also be controlled. During breathing, the diaphragm contracts to take air in by increasing the capacity of the lungs and relaxes to force air out.  

 

Where is diaphragm pain felt? 

Diaphragm pain is felt in the abdomen at the bottom of the ribcage. Examples of diaphragm pain are shortness of breath after eating, getting a stitch when exercising, and pain when breathing in.

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