NEW DELHI : Stomach sounds are a normal part of gastrointestinal activity and can occur regardless of whether a person is hungry. Medically known as borborygmi, these sounds are produced by the movement of gas, fluids and digestive contents through the stomach and intestines.
Dr Nirdesh Chauhan, consultant gastroenterologist at Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad, explains that stomach noises can occur at different stages of digestion. While they are usually harmless, persistent sounds accompanied by other digestive symptoms may require medical attention.
What causes stomach growling?
Several processes within the digestive system can produce the familiar rumbling sound. Let’s understand some of them here:
The gut’s internal housekeeping process
About 90 to 120 minutes after the stomach empties, the digestive tract can activate the Migrating Motor Complex (MMC). This series of contractions helps move residual food particles, bacteria and dead cells through the digestive tract. With less food present in the stomach, the movement of air and fluid can become more audible, resulting in the rumbling commonly associated with hunger.
Digestion can also cause stomach noises
Stomach sounds do not stop after a meal. Muscular contractions known as peristalsis continuously mix and move food through the digestive tract. As solid food, digestive fluids and air move through the intestines, they can produce gurgling and rumbling sounds. Therefore, hearing these noises after eating is not necessarily a cause for concern.
Swallowed air and gas can add to the sounds
The amount of air swallowed during the day can also influence stomach noises. Eating quickly, chewing gum or drinking through a straw may cause a person to swallow excess air. Meanwhile, the natural fermentation of carbohydrates by gut bacteria produces gas. As these gas pockets move through the intestines, they can contribute to audible abdominal sounds.
Stress can affect gut activity
The digestive system is closely connected to the brain through the gut-brain axis. According to Dr Chauhan, anxiety and stress can stimulate gut motility, which may make digestive activity and its accompanying sounds more noticeable.
When should you consult a doctor?
In most cases, stomach rumbling is simply a result of normal digestive activity. However, it should be assessed if it is persistent or occurs alongside severe abdominal pain, persistent bloating, nausea or changes in bowel habits.
These symptoms can sometimes indicate an underlying digestive problem, including malabsorption or gastrointestinal motility disorders. If such symptoms continue, consulting a gastroenterologist can help identify the cause and determine whether further evaluation is needed.
