Borborygmus

Borborygmus (plural borborygmi), also known as stomach rumbling, is a normal phenomenon in which gas moves through the intestines creating a rumbling, gurgling or growling noise. The term "borborygmus" is derived from the Greek "βορβορυγμός" which means rumbling.

Causes

Borborygmi are produced by the movement of gas and fluids in the gastrointestinal tract. During periods of fasting, the brain triggers a series of contractions known as the migrating motor complex (MMC) to sweep remaining particles through the digestive system. The MMC also triggers borborygmi.

In some cases, excessive borborygmi may be symptomatic of conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or gastroenteritis. It can also be a side effect of certain medications, such as those used for laxatives or cholecystitis.

Diagnosis

Borborygmi can usually be heard through a stethoscope during a physical examination. If the borborygmi are excessive or accompanied by other symptoms, further diagnostic tests may be required, such as blood tests, endoscopy, or imaging studies.

Treatment

Treatment for borborygmi depends on the underlying cause. If the borborygmi are due to normal physiological processes, no treatment is necessary. If they are symptomatic of a medical condition, treatment of that condition should alleviate the borborygmi. Dietary changes, such as reducing intake of gas-producing foods or increasing fiber intake, may also help.

See also

• Digestion
• Gastroenterology
• Human gastrointestinal tract