Where is the abdomen located?
The abdomen (commonly called the belly) is the body space between the thorax (chest) and pelvis. The diaphragm forms the upper surface of the abdomen. At the level of the pelvic bones, the abdomen ends and the pelvis begins. The abdomen contains all the digestive organs, including the stomach, small and large intestines, pancreas, liver, ...
What is the abdominal cavity?
The abdominal cavity is the part of the body that houses the stomach, liver, pancreas, kidneys, gallbladder, spleen, and the large and small intestines. The diaphragm marks the top of the abdomen and the horizontal line at the level of the top of the pelvis marks the bottom.
What are the bones in the abdomen?
Abdomen. Key bones in the abdominal area include the base of the ribcage and the lumbar spine in the lower back. Because of the important organs situated in the abdominal area, many health concerns stem from this area. Some include:
What is the function of the abdomen?
Abdomen. The muscles of the abdomen protect vital organs underneath and provide structure for the spine. These muscles help the body bend at the waist. The major muscles of the abdomen include the rectus abdominis in front, the external obliques at the sides, and the latissimus dorsi muscles in the back. The major organs...
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What are the 9 areas of abdomen?
These planes divide the abdomen into nine regions:Right hypochondriac.Right lumbar (or flank)Right illiac.Epigastric.Umbilical.Hypogastric (or pubic)Left hypochondriac.Left lumbar (or flank)More items...•
What are the 6 surrounding areas of the abdomen?
On the sides of the abdomen the other six regions are the left and right hypochondriac regions, on either side of the epigastrium; the left and right lumbar flank regions, on either side of the umbilical region, and the left and right iliac or inguinal regions on either side of the hypogastrium.
What do you call lower abdomen area?
Hypogastric region of the lower abdomen: It is called region 8 and is located in the medial lower abdomen at the pelvis or suprapubic area. The organs in this region include the bladder, ileac arteries and veins, part of the large bowel (sigmoid colon, rectum), and the small bowel (mostly the ileum).
What is considered upper abdomen?
The upper right quadrant contains various organs, including the gallbladder, liver, right kidney, the head of the pancreas and part of the small intestine and colon. In the upper left quadrant are the spleen, stomach, left kidney, the tail of the pancreas and another part of the small intestine and colon.
Is abdomen and stomach the same?
The abdomen (colloquially called the belly, tummy, midriff, tucky or stomach) is the part of the body between the thorax (chest) and pelvis, in humans and in other vertebrates. The abdomen is the front part of the abdominal segment of the torso. The area occupied by the abdomen is called the abdominal cavity.
What does abdomen mean in medical terms?
(ab-DAH-mih-nul) Having to do with the abdomen, which is the part of the body between the chest and the hips that contains the pancreas, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and other organs.
Where does the abdomen start and end?
The abdomen (commonly called the belly) is the body space between the thorax (chest) and pelvis. The diaphragm forms the upper surface of the abdomen. At the level of the pelvic bones, the abdomen ends and the pelvis begins.
Where is the lower abdomen on a woman?
The lower abdomen refers to the part of your tummy below the belly button.
Where is the lower abdomen in a woman's body?
pelvisIn women, the lowest portion of the abdomen is actually the pelvis and involves the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.
What are the four types of abdominal pain?
There are four types of abdominal pain: upper, lower, right-sided and left-sided. Each type has specific symptoms and causes, and all are briefly discussed below (for detailed discussion click here).
Where is abdominal pain located?
Abdominal pain is pain that you feel anywhere between your chest and groin. This is often referred to as the stomach region or belly. Since the abdominal area contains many different organs it is divided in smaller areas.
What organs are in your abdomen?
The abdomen contains many vital organs: the stomach, the small intestine (jejunum and ileum), the large intestine (colon), the liver, the spleen, the gallbladder, the pancreas, the uterus, the fallopian tubes, the ovaries, the kidneys, the ureters, the bladder, and many blood vessels (arteries and veins).
What organs are behind your belly button?
This part of your abdomen is referred to as the umbilical region. It contains parts of your stomach, small and large intestine, and your pancreas.
What organs are on your right side mid abdomen?
Organs found in this quadrant include: the liver, the gallbladder, duodenum, the upper portion of the pancreas, and the hepatic flexure of the colon. Pain in the right upper quadrant may be indicative of hepatitis, cholecystitis, or the formation of a peptic ulcer.
What organs are on the left side of your abdomen?
The organs located in your left abdomen include your colon, left kidney, spleen, stomach, and pancreas....If your pain in the lower left abdomen continues, look for symptoms of the following conditions:Appendicitis. ... Diverticulitis. ... Constipation. ... Kidney Stones. ... Stomach ulcers.
What organs can you feel in your abdomen?
Deep palpation helps feel for certain palpable abdominal organs—especially if they are enlarged. Organs that should be palpated during the deep exam include the liver, gallbladder, and spleen. We will also discuss techniques for palpating the stomach, pancreas, duodenum, and kidneys.
What is the abdominal muscle?
Abdomen. Medically reviewed by the Healthline Medical Network — Written by the Healthline Editorial Team on January 24, 2018. The muscles of the abdomen protect vital organs underneath and provide structure for the spine. These muscles help the body bend at the waist. The major muscles of the abdomen include the rectus abdominis in front, ...
What are the major muscles of the abdomen?
The major muscles of the abdomen include the rectus abdominis in front, the external obliques at the sides, and the latissimus dorsi muscles in the back. The major organs of the abdomen include the small intestine, large intestine, and stomach.
Where are the kidneys located?
Most people have two kidneys, which are located near the back of the body, under the ribs, on each side of the spine. Kidneys filter waste out of the bloodstream, which is passed out of the body as urine.
What bones are in the lower back?
Key bones in the abdominal area include the base of the ribcage and the lumbar spine in the lower back.
What is the abdominal muscle?
Abdomen. Medically reviewed by the Healthline Medical Network — Written by the Healthline Editorial Team — Updated on January 20, 2018. The muscles of the abdomen protect vital organs underneath and provide structure for the spine. These muscles help the body bend at the waist. The major muscles of the abdomen include the rectus abdominis in front, ...
What are the major organs of the abdomen?
The major organs of the abdomen include the small intestine, large intestine, and stomach. Together, these three turn nutrients into usable energy, as well as help dispose of solid waste. Major organs that help filter contaminants out of the body are also in the abdominal region. These include the liver and kidneys.
Why do the abdominal muscles stretch during pregnancy?
The abdominal muscles stretch during pregnancy to allow room for the fetus to grow.
What bones are in the lower back?
Key bones in the abdominal area include the base of the ribcage and the lumbar spine in the lower back.
Where are the kidneys located?
Most people have two kidneys, which are located near the back of the body, under the ribs, on each side of the spine. Kidneys filter waste out of the bloodstream, which is passed out of the body as urine.
What muscles help the body bend at the waist?
The muscles of the abdomen protect vital organs underneath and provide structure for the spine. These muscles help the body bend at the waist.
What is the thick layer of fat that surrounds the abdomen?
A tough layer of fibrous tissue called fascia surrounds the abdomen. The abdominal muscles lie on top of the fascia and under a layer of fat and skin. Image Source: © 2009 WebMD, LLC.
What is the connective tissue that holds the abdominal organs together?
Connective tissue called the mesentery holds the abdominal organs together. Several large blood vessels travel through the abdomen. The aorta and inferior vena cava are two important blood vessels that lie partially in the abdomen. A tough layer of fibrous tissue called fascia surrounds the abdomen. The abdominal muscles lie on top of the fascia ...
What is the body cavity?
The abdominal cavity is the part of the body that houses the stomach, liver, pancreas, kidneys, gallbladder, spleen, and the large and small intestines. The diaphragm marks the top of the abdomen and the horizontal line at the level of the top of the pelvis marks the bottom. Connective tissue called the mesentery holds the abdominal organs together.
What is abdominal pain?
Abdominal pain is pain that occurs between the chest and pelvic regions. Abdominal pain can be crampy, achy, dull, intermittent or sharp. It’s also called a stomachache. Inflammation or diseases that affect the organs in the abdomen can cause abdominal pain. Major organs located in the abdomen include:
What is the pain in the abdomen?
Abdominal pain can be described as localized, cramp-like, or colicky. Localized pain is limited to one area of the abdomen. This type of pain is often caused by problems in a particular organ. The most common cause of localized pain is stomach ulcers (open sores on the inner lining of the stomach).
How to diagnose abdominal pain?
The cause of abdominal pain can be diagnosed through a series of tests. Before ordering tests, your doctor will do a physical examination. This includes gently pressing on various areas of your abdomen to check for tenderness and swelling.
What causes pain in the lower abdomen?
ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy that occurs outside the womb) In women, pain in the reproductive organs of the lower abdomen can be caused by: severe menstrual pain (called dysmenorrhea) ovarian cysts. miscarriage. fibroids. endometriosis. pelvic inflammatory disease. ectopic pregnancy.
What to do if you have abdominal pain while pregnant?
Call your doctor if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding and you experience abdominal pain.
What tests are used to diagnose abdominal pain?
Imaging tests, such as MRI scans, ultrasounds, and X-rays, are used to view organs, tissues, and other structures in the abdomen in detail.
What is the term for a disorder that causes abdominal pain, cramping, and changes in bowel movements?
irritable bowel syndrome or spastic colon (a disorder that causes abdominal pain, cramping, and changes in bowel movements)
What are the four quadrants of the abdominal cavity?
It is typically divided into four quadrants: upper right, upper left, lower right and lower left. The upper right quadrant contains various organs, including the gallbladder, liver, right kidney, the head of the pancreas and part of the small intestine and colon. In the upper left quadrant are the spleen, stomach, left kidney, the tail of the pancreas and another part of the small intestine and colon. Similar to chest trauma, blunt trauma to the abdomen in sports, for example, can lead to serious injuries, intensive care and surgery. For instance, when a player bashes into another player, equipment or a barrier, he can injure his spleen.
Why does my upper abdomen hurt?
According to the Mayo Clinic, there are several causes of upper abdominal pain, which include angina, or decreased blood flow to your heart, appendicitis, gallstones , heart attack, pancreatitis, peptic ulcer, pleurisy and pneumonia.
What is the six pack abs?
If you’re in good shape and lean, the sections of your abdominal muscle are visible, and are commonly referred to as the “six-pack” or “washboard abs.” Thousands of crunches will not alter the width and depth of these tendinous inscriptions, which are determined by your genetic inheritance.
What are some exercises to strengthen your lower abs?
While standard crunches or curls will put stress on the upper abs, reverse crunches or hip lifts will blast the lower abs.
What is segmental innervation?
Different areas of a muscle can be selectively stimulated by your nervous system, which is called segmental nerve innervation, according to Douglas Brooks’ “Effective Strength Training: Analysis and Technique for Upper-Body, Lower-Body and Trunk Exercises.” When you perform an abdominal exercise that targets the upper abs, the entire abdominal muscle is activated or stimulated by the nerves. However, the upper abdominal fibers are stimulated to a greater degree than the lower abdominals.
Is the abdominal muscle a long muscle?
You may think you’re working two muscles, but the abdominal muscle, or rectus abdominis, is technically a single long muscle. However, the nervous system functions in such a way that you can target different regions of one muscle.
What is the function of the stomach?
Its main function is to store and break down the foods and liquids that we consume before those contents travel to other organs to be further digested. When the stomach is empty, the inside has small folds called rugae. Rugae allow the stomach to expand to accommodate large meals.
What happens to food after the stomach is done?
After the stomach has done its work, the highly acidic mixture of gastric juices and food (known as chyme) leaves the stomach, moves past the pyloric sphincter, and goes into the duodenum before entering the small intestine.
Which sphincter separates the esophagus and stomach?
The esophageal sphincter separates the esophagus and the stomach. When that muscle doesn’t relax properly, it feels like it is difficult to swallow. On the opposite end of the stomach, the pyloric sphincter regulates the speed at which food moves down to the small intestine.
What is the main tool of digestion?
The stomach’s main tool for digestion is the powerful mix of secretions collectively called gastric juices. To counteract these strong juices, the stomach protects itself with mucus-like secretions. Without this protection, the stomach would essentially digest itself (“auto-digestion”), which is a common cause of stomach ulcers.
What is abdominal aneurysm?
An abdominal aortic aneurysm occurs when a lower portion of your body's main artery (aorta) becomes weakened and bulges. An abdominal ultrasound is done to view structures inside the abdomen. It's the preferred screening method for an abdominal aortic aneurysm, a weakened, bulging spot in the abdominal aorta — the major blood vessel ...
Why do doctors do abdominal ultrasounds?
Why it's done. An abdominal ultrasound can help your doctor see many organs in your abdomen. Your doctor may recommend this test if you have a problem in any of these body areas: An abdominal ultrasound can help your doctor evaluate the cause of stomach pain or bloating.
What is the enlarged area in the lower part of the aorta?
The enlarged area in the lower part of the aorta is an abdominal aortic aneurysm. An ultrasound image of an abdominal aortic aneurysm is shown in the upper right corner. Ultrasound imaging is often used to diagnose abdominal aortic aneurysms.
What are the organs that are seen in an ultrasound?
An abdominal ultrasound can help your doctor see many organs in your abdomen. Your doctor may recommend this test if you have a problem in any of these body areas: 1 Blood vessels in the abdomen 2 Gallbladder 3 Intestines 4 Kidneys 5 Liver 6 Pancreas 7 Spleen
What is the name of the device that performs abdominal ultrasound?
The technician applies a small amount of warm gel to your abdomen. The gel works with the ultrasound device, called a transducer , to provide better images.
Is abdominal ultrasound safe?
Abdominal ultrasound is a safe procedure that uses low-power sound waves. There are no known risks.
Can you have an abdominal aneurysm if you have never smoked?
Doctors recommend an abdominal ultrasound to screen for an abdominal aortic aneurysm in men ages 65 to 75 who are current or former cigarette smokers. If you've never smoked, abdominal aortic aneurysm screening isn't recommended for men (or women), unless your doctor suspects you may have an aneurysm or if you have a family history of an aneurysm.
Why is the stomach the hardest muscle to tone?
That’s because there are two layers of fat in the stomach region (unlike the arms and legs which have one type). While having body fat stored near your vital organs is a great survival tool , it means the abdominal muscles are the hardest ones to tone for many people!
When was the last time the apron belly was reviewed?
They’ll also be able to give you specific advice about what next steps might make the most sense for you. Last medically reviewed on March 31, 2020. Parenthood.
How to get rid of apron belly?
If your apron belly is causing you physical discomfort, there are many things that you can try to help feel your best: 1 Apply anti-chafing creams. The skin on the underside of an apron belly can rub or chafe. Using an anti-chafing cream can help prevent skin irritation and the discomfort that can follow. 2 Use support bands or clothing. Using a support band or clothing designed to support the abdominal area can help conceal an apron belly. It can also help prevent additional skin sagging and alleviate back problems from carrying extra weight in the front of the body. 3 Keep the area clean and dry. Maintaining good hygiene helps prevent rashes and other skin issues. Given that the skin under an apron belly is particularly apt to rub and trap moisture and heat, it can be especially susceptible to rashes and irritations.
Can a woman have an apron belly?
That said, apron belly does not only occur in women or people who have overweight. Men, those who have lost weight, and others may also develop an apron belly. An apron belly can increase the risk of certain cancers, including ovarian cancer. It has also been associated with heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Does a panniculectomy tighten the abdominal muscles?
removes the pannus. Unlike a tummy tuck, a panniculectomy does not tighten the abdominal muscles by removing extra skin and fat, which can result in a flatter abdominal area. However, a panniculectomy can be combined with a tummy tuck or other abdominal procedure if desired.
