Hearing strange gurgles from your stomach while you are resting or going about your day can feel awkward but health experts say these sounds are completely normal. According to Florida based gastroenterologist Dr Joseph Salhab the digestive system is constantly active and noise from the gut is a natural result of digestion working the way it should. These sounds known medically as borborygmus often become more noticeable when the stomach is empty or when hunger kicks in.
Dr Salhab explains that doctors frequently use a stethoscope to listen to the abdomen because bowel sounds are signs of normal movement in the intestines. He notes that the gut should produce some kind of sound every few seconds throughout almost the entire day. When people are hungry or eagerly expecting a meal the stomach may grow louder as the digestive system prepares to process food.
However eating something that does not suit your body may trigger stronger movements in the intestines which can result in increased rumbling or even diarrhea as the system tries to push the food through more quickly. On the other hand if bowel sounds become very slow or noticeably reduced it may indicate sluggish digestion. In hospital settings very sharp or high pitched noises can sometimes warn doctors of a potential blockage.
Dr Salhab reassures that these gut noises are part of everyday life and nothing to be alarmed about. Borborygmus is simply a sign that your digestive system is alive and functioning. If however there is pain discomfort changes in bowel habits or long periods of silence from the gut medical advice should be sought for proper evaluation. This information is provided to raise awareness about gut health but should not replace guidance from a healthcare professional.