Abdominal Noises: Causes and When to Seek Help - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Abdominal sounds?

In the past week or two, I have frequently experienced sounds coming from my abdomen, along with occasional mild pain or strange sensations in the area.
The sounds are often more pronounced at night, but when I try not to focus on it, they seem to lessen.
I am currently in the third year of junior high school and feeling more stressed, and I'm unsure if this is related to my stress or if there is an underlying health issue.
I visited a doctor, but they only advised me to eat more vegetables, which hasn't alleviated my concerns.
Whenever I think about my abdominal issues, the sounds become more frequent, causing me anxiety.
I hope you can help me assess the situation.
Thank you.

Guo San, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/03

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, abdominal rumbling and abdominal pain are commonly caused by indigestion and eating too quickly.
Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, gastroenteritis, peptic ulcers, and intestinal obstruction can also lead to these symptoms.
It is advised that despite a heavy academic workload, one should pay attention to dietary hygiene and habits, maintain a regular diet, avoid eating too quickly, ensure adequate hydration, and engage in physical activity to develop good bowel habits.
Proper stress relief is also recommended.
Improvement should be expected.
If symptoms persist, follow-up treatment in an outpatient setting is necessary.
Wishing you safety and health! Sincerely, Dr.
Ming-Hui Lin, Attending Physician, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2021/02/03

More Info

Understanding abdominal noises, often referred to as "borborygmi," can be a source of concern for many individuals. These sounds are typically produced by the movement of gas and fluid through the intestines during digestion. While they are usually a normal physiological phenomenon, persistent or unusual abdominal noises accompanied by pain or discomfort may warrant further investigation.

In your case, the recent increase in abdominal sounds, coupled with occasional mild pain and unusual sensations, could be influenced by several factors. Stress, particularly during a demanding academic period, can significantly impact gastrointestinal function. Stress can lead to increased gut motility, which may cause more pronounced sounds in the abdomen. This phenomenon is often associated with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), where stress and anxiety exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms.

Common causes of abdominal noises include:
1. Normal Digestion: As food moves through the digestive tract, it can create sounds. This is especially noticeable when the stomach is empty or after eating.

2. Gastrointestinal Disorders: Conditions such as IBS, gastritis, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can lead to increased bowel sounds and discomfort.

3. Dietary Factors: Consuming certain foods, particularly those high in fiber or gas-producing foods (like beans, broccoli, and carbonated drinks), can lead to increased gas and noise in the intestines.

4. Eating Habits: Eating too quickly or not chewing food thoroughly can cause air to be swallowed, leading to increased gas and sounds.

5. Constipation: If bowel movements are infrequent or difficult, this can lead to a buildup of gas and increased noise.

Given that you have already consulted a physician who recommended dietary changes, it’s essential to consider a few additional strategies:
- Dietary Adjustments: Incorporating more fiber-rich foods gradually can help regulate bowel movements and reduce gas. However, be cautious with sudden increases in fiber, as this can initially exacerbate gas production.

- Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water, as this aids digestion and helps prevent constipation.

- Mindful Eating: Try to eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly to minimize air swallowing.

- Stress Management: Since you mentioned increased stress levels, consider incorporating stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or regular physical activity, which can also promote healthy digestion.

- Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help stimulate bowel function and reduce feelings of bloating or discomfort.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, it would be prudent to seek further medical evaluation. This could involve additional tests to rule out any underlying gastrointestinal conditions. It’s important to keep a symptom diary, noting when the noises occur, any associated pain, dietary habits, and stress levels. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in determining the next steps.

In summary, while abdominal noises can often be benign, the combination of sounds with discomfort, especially in the context of stress, suggests that it may be beneficial to explore both dietary and lifestyle modifications. If symptoms continue or escalate, do not hesitate to follow up with your healthcare provider for a more comprehensive evaluation. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and addressing these concerns proactively is essential.

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