The diaphragm is a large muscle at the base of the lungs that contracts every time a person breathes in. As the diaphragm contracts, it becomes flatter. This allows the lungs to expand, causing air to be sucked in. Hiccups are involuntary contractions, or spasms, of the diaphragm.

Belching is related to the venting of stomach air or intentional burping, and is often related to a medical condition.

Stomach aches and back pain can make you feel terrible, particularly when they occur together. As they are both common problems, when abdominal and back pain occur at the same time, it may be just a coincidence. But several medical conditions can cause both symptoms.

Side effects after gallbladder removal can be immediate and related to the surgery, or long term and linked to physical changes or pre-existing conditions.

Having tummy troubles? The next time you're gassy, bloated, or constipated, you may want to head to the tea aisle.

Babies normally have soft -- sometimes runny -- bowel movements, especially if they are breast fed. If the baby is drinking formula and develops diarrhea, his parents may wonder if the formula is causing the problem. The doctor can help the parents pinpoint the cause of diarrhea and prescribe a change in formula.

The backflow of stomach acid and contents into the esophagus causes heartburn and its associated symptoms. When heartburn becomes chronic, it can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD.

Acid reflux can cause pain and burning just by the simple act of eating. If you have acid reflux, certain foods can trigger an episode of acid reflux. Although everyone has different triggers, some people experience acid reflux after eating fruit.

The hiatus is an opening in your diaphragm muscle that allows your food pipe to pass through to your stomach. A hiatal hernia happens when a portion of your stomach pushes up through the hiatus and into your chest, according to Health Services at Columbia University.

Most cases of diarrhea in toddlers are caused by viral infections. Bacteria, parasites, food allergies and medication side effects are other possible causes.

Antibiotics are indispensable in fighting infections, but not everyone can take them without side effects. The Bastyr University’s Center for Natural Health estimates that as many as 39 percent of patients who take antibiotics develop diarrhea as a result.

Many chewing gums are made with sugar alcohols, a type of sweetener that is used in place of sugar. Since sugar alcohols contain fewer calories per gram compared to sugar, these may assist you with weight-loss efforts. Sugar alcohols are also better for dental health since they do not promote cavities.