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Understanding Borborygmi: Can Stomach Noises Be a Sign of Bowel Cancer?

Jan 16, 2026

TL;DR

Stomach noises are usually harmless and part of normal digestion. On their own, they are rarely a sign of bowel cancer. What matters is context: persistent or unusual gut sounds combined with symptoms like changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, blood in stool, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue may need medical evaluation. Bowel cancer can indirectly affect gut sounds if it causes partial blockage, but early detection through timely screening greatly improves outcomes.

Everyone knows about stomach sounds, the gurgling, grumbling, or rumbling that can show up at the most inconvenient moments. Medically, these noises are known as borborygmi and are also referred to as digestive or intestinal sounds.

Most of the time, these sounds are harmless, caused by the movement of gas, fluids or food through the intestines. However, they can occasionally be a matter of concern, especially when they persist and are accompanied by other symptoms. This raises an important question: Can stomach noises be a sign of bowel cancer?

It’s reassuring to know that stomach noises alone are rarely a sign of bowel (colorectal) cancer. Most gut sounds are a normal part of digestion. What matters more is whether they’re persistent, unusual for you, or accompanied by symptoms like changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, blood in stool, or unexplained weight loss. In rare cases, bowel cancer can affect intestinal movement, but noisy digestion by itself is not considered a diagnostic sign.

Let's explore more into what these gut sounds mean, when they're normal, and when it's time to see a doctor. Understanding your body's cues can help you catch serious issues early or simply ease unnecessary worry.

What Causes Stomach Noises?

Stomach noises or growling are a normal part of the digestive process. They’re often more noticeable when your stomach is empty, as there’s less food to muffle the movement of air and fluids, making the gurgling sounds seem louder.

These noises occur as air, fluid, and food move through the gastrointestinal tract, which includes small and large intestines. As digestion happens, the intestines contract and relax in a coordinated rhythm known as peristalsis, helping push contents forward. This natural movement creates sounds.

In most cases, stomach noises are simply a sign that your digestive system is doing its job. However, certain everyday situations can make them more noticeable, including:

Hunger or an empty stomach

Eating gas-producing foods or drinking carbonated beverages

Swallowing air by eating too quickly

Normal digestive activity after meals

Dehydration or mild electrolyte imbalance

Mild gastrointestinal irritation, such as indigestion or food intolerance

Types of stomach noises

Hyperactive sounds: Frequent or loud gurgling, often linked to hunger, diarrhea, or food sensitivities

Hypoactive sounds: Quieter or less frequent noises, sometimes seen with slowed digestion or constipation

Know that in most cases, these noises are harmless and not a sign of anything dangerous. But then, there are instances when you should be a little concerned about them. We'll help you understand more about that in the next section.

Also Read: Is Your Gut Unhealthy?

When Are Stomach Noises a Concern?

Stomach noises by themselves are usually harmless. Normal gut sounds are occasional, mild, and not linked to pain or changes in bowel habits. Concern arises only when the noises are persistent and occur alongside other symptoms.

You should consider speaking to a healthcare provider if frequent stomach noises are accompanied by:

Persistent or unexplained abdominal pain or cramps

Blood in the stool or black, tarry stools

You feel that your bowel does not empty completely

Unintentional weight loss

Persistent constipation or prolonged diarrhea

Noticeable changes in bowel habits

Frequent bloating or cramping

Fatigue or weakness

These signs may point to a more serious digestive issue, including bowel cancer (colorectal). The chances grow higher if you're over the age of 50 or have a family history of colon or rectal cancer. As a tumor grows, it can affect bowel movement and function, which may indirectly alter gut sounds.

NOTE: If these symptoms persist, timely medical evaluation is important for accurate diagnosis and early treatment.

The Connection Between Bowel Cancer and Stomach Noises

Bowel cancer, also called colorectal cancer, develops in the colon or rectum. It can affect how the intestines work, but stomach noises are not a direct or common symptom of bowel cancer.

In some cases, bowel cancer can indirectly change gut sounds. This usually happens when a growing tumor starts to narrow or partially block the bowel. When food, gas, and fluids can’t move smoothly, the intestines may contract more forcefully to push things along. This can lead to:

Unusual or louder gurgling sounds

High-pitched bowel noises

A feeling of bloating or pressure

Changes in bowel habits or discomfort

It’s important to remember that noisy digestion on its own is rarely a warning sign. Most stomach sounds are normal. Concern arises only when these noises are persistent and occur along with other symptoms that we discussed in the previous section.

NOTE: Regular screenings for bowel cancer should begin earlier. It is especially important for people over 45 and those with a family history of the disease. Many cases are highly treatable when found early.

Important Fact

Q: Which test helps me detect bowel cancer?

Ans: A colonoscopy is a common test used to detect bowel cancer. Other tests are also used to diagnose bowel cancer and confirm a cancer diagnosis.

Also Read: Gut Essentials Every Mom Should Know

Important to Know

Stomach noises alone do not indicate bowel cancer. But if digestive sounds feel unusual for you and come with persistent symptoms like pain, bleeding, or bowel changes, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation.

What Other Condition Can Mimic Bowel Cancer Symptoms?

Not all digestive symptoms point to cancer. Several non-cancerous conditions can cause stomach noises and symptoms that may look similar to bowel cancer. Common ones include:

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A functional gut disorder that often causes bloating, gas, abdominal discomfort, and frequent changes in bowel habits.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can lead to inflammation, bleeding, abdominal pain, and increased digestive noises due to narrowing or irritation of the intestines.

Food intolerances: Lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity may trigger rumbling, cramps, bloating, and excess gas after eating certain foods.

Gut Infections: Bacterial or parasitic infections can temporarily disrupt digestion, causing unusual stomach sounds, diarrhea, or abdominal pain.

In many cases, stomach noises may indicate a need for medical attention if they are persistent and accompanied by symptoms like weight loss or changes in bowel habits. Not because it’s cancer, but to identify the actual cause. A healthcare provider is the right person to rule out these more common conditions before considering serious diagnoses.

You Should Know: A doctor may use a stethoscope to listen to bowel sounds and may order further tests like a CT scan, X-ray, or endoscopy to diagnose the underlying cause.

Also Read: How colostrum supports the gut microbiome.

Bonus Tip: A Happy Gut, A Happy You!

Even if those stomach rumbles aren't a red flag, keeping your gut in shape is always a win, for your digestion and your mood! Here's your gut-friendly lifestyle checklist:

Verdict: Should You Be Worried?

Stomach noises on their own are rarely a sign of bowel cancer. In most people, gurgling and rumbling simply reflect a healthy, active digestive system. What matters is when these sounds occur alongside unexplained pain, changes in bowel habits, or signs of bleeding. These symptoms are worth paying attention to and should be checked by a doctor.

Early detection makes a real difference. When bowel cancer is found early, treatment is often simpler and outcomes are significantly better. That’s why routine screening is now recommended from age 45, or earlier for those with a family history or higher risk.

Staying aware of changes in your digestion, keeping up with screenings, and seeking timely medical advice are some of the most effective ways to protect your gut health. For more science-backed digestive wellness insights, visit Wellness Extract and stay informed, proactive, and supported.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before making changes to your diet or health routine. Individual results may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What are the 5 warning signs of bowel cancer?

Look for: blood in your poo, a persistent change in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea), ongoing tummy pain or cramps, unexplained weight loss, and persistent tiredness or weakness (possible anemia). If any of these last more than a few weeks, it’s time to see your doctor.

Q2: When to worry about stomach gurgling?

Occasional gurgling is normal. If gurgling is persistent and comes with other signs, especially severe or ongoing abdominal pain, vomiting, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, fever, or an inability to pass stools or wind, you should worry.

Q3: Where is the bowel cancer pain felt?

Bowel cancer pain is usually felt in the lower tummy, either on the left or right side. It may feel like cramps, bloating, or pressure. In later stages, it can cause stronger pelvic pain or even a lump. If tummy pain doesn’t go away, you must get it checked.

Q4: What are the silent signs of colon cancer?

Some subtle (easy to miss) signs include ongoing change in toilet habits, narrow/ ribbon-like stools, persistent tiredness (from anemia), unexplained weight loss, and a feeling of not fully emptying the bowel.

Q5: How to detect colon cancer without colonoscopy?

Noninvasive options include:

FIT (fecal immunochemical test): Checks stool for hidden blood; done annually in many screening programs.

Multitarget stool DNA tests (e.g., Cologuard): Detects abnormal DNA and blood in stool.

CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy): An imaging alternative.

Q6: Is stomach gurgling a sign of bowel obstruction?

Gurgling can be one sign, but only when paired with severe cramping, repeated vomiting, inability to pass stool or gas, and a swollen abdomen. Those symptoms together suggest possible bowel obstruction and need immediate medical attention.

References

Mount Sinai. “Symptoms: Abdominal Sounds.” Mount Sinai Health System, https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/symptoms/abdominal-sounds

Berry, Jennifer. "What to Know About Bowel Cancer and Stomach Noises." Medical News Today, 13 Feb. 2023, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/bowel-cancer-stomach-noises

American Cancer Society. "Colorectal Cancer Signs and Symptoms." American Cancer Society, 29 Jan. 2024, https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/colon-rectal-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-and-symptoms.html

Verywell Health. "Common Reasons for Borborygmi (Stomach Growling)." Verywell Health, 31 May 2025, https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-borborygmi-1942951