The wait times in our emergency departments are longer than usual due to illnesses like RSV and the flu. View our estimated ED wait times and learn more about where to get care for your sick child.

Patient & Family Education Materials

Start over with a New Search

What's the Diaphragm?

Article Translations: (Spanish)

Diaphragm

Say: DYE-uh-fram

Ever get the hiccups? Don't worry — it's just your diaphragm doing something different! This thin, dome-shaped muscle helps you breathe and separates the lungs from your stomach and intestines. When it gets irritated, the diaphragm forces the air out of your lungs in a funny way. Hic!

Back To Top

Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.

© 1995-2025 KidsHealth ® All rights reserved. Images provided by iStock, Getty Images, Corbis, Veer, Science Photo Library, Science Source Images, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com