What is the space under the chest called? Understanding the Epigastric Region

September 26, 2025 •

3 min read

The space under the chest is a key anatomical area, with various structures and organs contained within it. Medically, this region is known by several names, but the most common is the epigastric region, and understanding its function and anatomy is vital for recognizing specific health concerns related to it.

Quick Summary

The space under the chest is anatomically known as the epigastric region, located in the upper central abdomen just below the xiphoid process where the ribcage meets. This area houses key digestive organs and the diaphragm, and can be the site of pain from conditions like indigestion, ulcers, or even heart problems.

Key Points

Epigastric Region: The space under the chest is medically known as the epigastric region, located in the upper central abdomen below the ribs.
Key Landmarks: The area is bordered by the xiphoid process of the sternum and the lower costal (rib) margins.
Organ Placement: Important digestive organs like parts of the stomach, liver, and pancreas are situated within the epigastric region.
Common Pain Causes: Common causes of pain in this area include indigestion, heartburn (GERD), and gastritis, which are often related to digestive health.
Serious Conditions: Severe pain, especially if accompanied by symptoms like chest pressure or difficulty breathing, could indicate a serious issue such as a heart problem or pancreatitis and requires immediate medical attention.
Diaphragm Connection: The diaphragm, the muscle for breathing, forms the floor of the chest and the roof of the epigastric area, and issues with it can cause pain in this region.

Demystifying the epigastric region

Many people experience sensations in the area just below their breastbone, but the precise anatomical term for this space is the epigastric region. This central upper abdominal area is bordered by the costal margins (lower edges of the ribs) and contains several vital organs. Understanding the structures within this region and the causes of discomfort can provide crucial health insights.

The anatomy of the upper abdomen

The human torso is divided into sections to help medical professionals accurately describe locations and symptoms. The epigastric region is the uppermost central segment of the nine abdominal quadrants. Key anatomical landmarks define this space:

The Xiphoid Process: This projection at the bottom of the sternum (breastbone) marks the superior boundary.
The Costal Margins: The lower border of the rib cage defines the lateral edges of the epigastric area and meets at the subcostal angle near the xiphoid process.
The Diaphragm: Just below the xiphoid process and costal margins lies the diaphragm, the main muscle of respiration that separates the chest cavity from the abdomen.

Organs located within the epigastric region

A number of vital organs and structures are situated within the epigastric region. Their proximity can sometimes cause pain to be referred or confused with other conditions. The epigastric region contains parts of:

The Stomach
The Liver
The Pancreas
The Duodenum

Common causes of pain in the epigastric region

Because the epigastric region is home to many digestive organs, various conditions affecting these areas can cause discomfort. While some are common and minor, others can be serious. Common causes include:

Indigestion (Dyspepsia): Often triggered by eating habits, causing fullness, bloating, or burning pain.
Heartburn and GERD: Stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus causes a burning sensation.
Gastritis and Peptic Ulcers: Inflammation or sores in the stomach lining can cause a gnawing or burning pain.
Gallbladder Issues: Pain from gallstones can sometimes radiate to the epigastric area.
Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe pain that may radiate to the back.

Serious conditions and when to seek medical help

While most epigastric pain is benign, some conditions require immediate medical attention. Signs that warrant seeing a doctor include:

Severe, sudden, or persistent pain
Pain with shortness of breath, chest pressure, or tightness
Vomiting blood or having black, tarry stools
Pain that radiates to the back, neck, or jaw

Comparison: Epigastric vs. Cardiac Pain


Feature	Epigastric Pain (Digestive)	Cardiac Pain (Heart-related)
Location	Upper central abdomen, below the ribs and xiphoid process	Substernal (behind the breastbone), can radiate to epigastric area
Nature	Burning, gnawing, sharp, or cramping sensation	Pressure, tightness, or squeezing; sometimes mistaken for indigestion
Triggers	Often linked to meals, certain foods, or lying down	Often triggered by exertion or stress; may occur at rest in some cases
Associated Symptoms	Bloating, burping, nausea, indigestion	Shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, pain radiating to arms/jaw
Relief	May be relieved by antacids, eating, or changing positions	Not relieved by antacids; requires rest or specific heart medication

The role of the diaphragm

The diaphragm is central to the anatomy of the space under the chest, separating the chest and abdomen. Its health is vital for respiratory function, and issues affecting it can manifest as epigastric pain. A hiatal hernia, where part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm, can cause acid reflux and epigastric discomfort. The diaphragm's function highlights the integration of the thorax and abdomen. For more detailed anatomical information on the diaphragm, refer to resources such as the Cleveland Clinic(https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/21578-diaphragm).

Conclusion

Understanding the names and functions of body parts is key to self-awareness and healthcare. The space under the chest is the epigastric region, a complex area with important organs. While often associated with minor issues, recognizing the potential for more serious conditions is critical. Paying attention to the nature and location of pain helps in communicating with healthcare providers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pain in the epigastric region can feel like a dull ache, a sharp or burning sensation, or a feeling of pressure or tightness. The specific sensation can vary depending on the underlying cause, whether it's indigestion, a stomach ulcer, or something more serious.

While often related to digestive issues like acid reflux or gastritis, epigastric pain can also originate from other sources. Because of the area's proximity to the heart, pancreas, and other organs, pain can sometimes be a sign of a heart attack, pancreatitis, or gallbladder problems.

You should see a doctor if you experience severe, persistent, or recurring pain in the epigastric region. Immediate medical attention is necessary if the pain is accompanied by symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pressure, dizziness, cold sweats, or if you are vomiting blood.

The xiphoid process is the small, triangular piece of cartilage and bone located at the very bottom of the sternum. It is a key anatomical landmark that marks the top of the epigastric region.

The subcostal angle, also known as the infrasternal angle, is the angle formed where the lower ribs meet at the xiphoid process. It helps define the boundaries of the epigastric region.

Yes, stress can significantly impact your digestive system. It can increase stomach acid production and worsen conditions like GERD or ulcers, leading to pain or discomfort in the epigastric area.

While epigastric pain and chest pain can be difficult to distinguish, epigastric pain is located specifically in the upper abdominal area below the ribs. Chest pain, particularly heart-related pain, often feels more like a pressure or squeezing behind the breastbone and can radiate to other areas.