The stomach keeps growling?
Doctor, is there a problem if my stomach keeps making noises? (Not when I'm hungry) It's been more than three days, and the sounds are consistently coming from about 5 cm to the right of my navel or a little lower.
There are vibrations that produce sounds, and I've also been passing gas quite a bit lately.
Sometimes I feel bloated, and my stools are loose and not well-formed.
I'm quite worried and would like to know what might be the issue.
A Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/08/21
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Loud bowel sounds may be due to increased intestinal motility.
It is recommended to follow a light diet, reduce the intake of irritating foods, and monitor for any occurrence of diarrhea.
If accompanied by abdominal pain or diarrhea, please seek medical attention promptly.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-Shun.
Reply Date: 2013/08/21
More Info
Persistent abdominal noises, often referred to as "borborygmi," can be a common occurrence and may not always indicate a serious health issue. However, when accompanied by other symptoms such as gas, bloating, and changes in bowel movements, it can warrant further investigation. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing these noises consistently in a specific area of your abdomen, along with increased flatulence and loose stools.
Abdominal noises are typically caused by the movement of gas and fluids through the intestines. This is a normal part of digestion, but when the noises become persistent or are accompanied by discomfort, it may suggest an underlying gastrointestinal issue. Some potential causes for your symptoms could include:
1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits. Stress, diet, and lifestyle can exacerbate IBS symptoms.
2. Food Intolerances: Certain foods can lead to excessive gas production and bloating. Common culprits include lactose (found in dairy products), gluten (found in wheat and related grains), and certain fermentable carbohydrates known as FODMAPs.
3. Gastroenteritis: An infection or inflammation of the stomach and intestines can lead to symptoms such as abdominal noises, diarrhea, and gas. This could be viral or bacterial in nature.
4. Diverticulitis: This condition involves inflammation or infection of small pouches that can form in the walls of the intestines. It can cause abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and sometimes, increased gas.
5. Constipation: If you are experiencing loose stools, it may seem counterintuitive, but constipation can also lead to increased gas and abdominal noises as the intestines work harder to move stool along.
Given that you have been experiencing these symptoms for over three days, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, particularly a gastroenterologist. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, a review of your medical history, and possibly diagnostic tests such as blood work, stool tests, or imaging studies to rule out any serious conditions.
In the meantime, you might consider keeping a food diary to track what you eat and any symptoms that arise. This can help identify any potential food intolerances or triggers. Additionally, staying hydrated, incorporating fiber into your diet, and managing stress through relaxation techniques or exercise can also be beneficial for your digestive health.
In summary, while persistent abdominal noises can be benign, the combination of symptoms you are experiencing suggests that it would be prudent to seek medical advice. Early intervention can help address any underlying issues and improve your overall gastrointestinal health.
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