Rumbling Stomach

Stomach rumbling refers to the growling sound that is usually produced in the stomach. The medical term for this condition is 'borborygmus'. Such sounds in the stomach is usually produced by the peristaltic movement of the bowel or movement of gas within the digestive tract. Generally, the muscles of the bowel and small intestine contract in a wave-like manner, in order to move food and digestive juice through the gastrointestinal tract. Such muscle contraction can cause the rumbling sound in the stomach, especially when the stomach is empty. This is the reason why rumbling sound inside the stomach is often regarded as an indicator, that the person is hungry.

However, stomach growling can also be caused by intestinal gas, which is produced by the bacteria residing in this part of the body. This can happen in the case of incomplete digestion of foods, which can give the intestinal bacteria an opportunity to participate in the digestion of food and produce gas in the process. So, stomach rumbling is mainly caused by the contractions of muscles of the intestinal tract, as well as movement of gas within the digestive system.

Borborygmus Causes

Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is one of the most common factors that can lead to an increase in intestinal gas. The condition is characterized by the inability to digest the sugar lactose found in milk and milk products. When lactose remain undigested in the body, the intestinal bacteria ferment it and produce gas as a byproduct. This results in 'borborygmus' or stomach rumbling. Apart from stomach rumbling, the condition can also be accompanied by some other symptoms like, flatulence and abdominal discomfort.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome can be termed as a functional disorder of the bowel, which can cause recurrent abdominal cramping, bloating, constipation and diarrhea. What exactly causes this bowel disorder is not known, but the condition has been found to cause stomach rumbling, in addition to the above mentioned gastrointestinal problems.

Aerophagia
Aerophagia refers to the act of swallowing too much air while eating or drinking. The swallowed air reaches the stomach, which in turn causes abdominal bloating, belching, flatulence and stomach rumbling. People having the habit of eating too fast or those under stress and anxiety can swallow a large amount of air while eating, which can manifest in rumbling noises.

Functional Dyspepsia
Dyspepsia or indigestion is one of the common conditions that is usually accompanied by rumbling sound, pain and discomfort in the upper abdominal region, bloating and a sensation of being full after eating a small meal. Sometimes, the symptoms of dyspepsia can be triggered by the consumption of oily or spicy foods.

Consumption of Foods that Produce Gas
It has been observed that certain foods have a tendency to produce gas in the intestine. Usually, foods that contain more carbohydrate and fiber may not get completely digested and as a result, the intestinal bacteria can act upon these foods and produce intestinal gas. The foods and drinks that are more commonly found to produce intestinal gas are, milk and dairy products, carbonated beverages, wheat, legumes, beans, certain vegetables like cabbage, etc. Consumption of such foods can sometimes cause stomach rumbling, flatulence and bloating. However, many times, this can be a part of digestion. But, if it is accompanied by abdominal pain and cramping, belching, bloating, constipation or diarrhea, then some underlying diseases or conditions can be responsible be associated with it. In such a condition, it is better to take the help of your physician in order to find out the underlying causes. In the meantime, some changes in your eating habits like, eating small, but frequent meals, drinking plenty of water, and identifying and limiting the consumption of foods and drinks that produce intestinal gas can help to manage the condition. Also try to reduce the level of stress and anxiety, as this too can trigger stomach rumbling.