borborygmus

Borborygmus is the rumbling or gurgling sound produced within the abdomen. It is caused by the movement of gas and fluid through the intestines. This process, known as peristalsis, is a normal part of digestion. The muscles in the intestinal walls contract and relax to move food, digestive juices, and waste products along the digestive tract. As these substances move, they can create sounds, especially when there is a significant amount of gas present.

Borborygmi are often more noticeable when the stomach is empty, as there is less material to muffle the sounds. Hunger can intensify these noises because the stomach secretes hormones that stimulate digestive activity, leading to increased peristalsis and gas movement. Other factors that can contribute to borborygmus include eating quickly, chewing gum, drinking carbonated beverages, and certain medical conditions.

While usually harmless and a common bodily function, excessive or unusually loud borborygmi, especially when accompanied by other symptoms like pain, bloating, nausea, or diarrhea, could indicate an underlying gastrointestinal issue. These might include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), food intolerments, infections, or bowel obstructions. If these sounds are a cause for concern, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended to rule out any medical conditions.