borborygmi

What are Borborigmi?

The borborigmi are noises produced by the gastric and intestinal activity, similar to gurgling and perceived with a variable frequency by all the people.

Why do they appear?

From a physiological point of view, the origin of borborigmas is attributed to the progression of gases within the intestinal lumen, associated with digestive processes on the one hand and fasting on the other.

In fact, digestive secretions and peristaltic movements increase even in fasting conditions, in order to prepare the digestive system for the immediate arrival of food; the same answer is also generated by similar stimuli, such as the sight and smell of dishes, the sound of cutlery, dishes, cooking and even the very thought of food.

The origin of borborigmas can be gastric or intestinal (small intestine) and as one can easily guess the absence of digested material within the viscera tends to amplify its sound intensity.

Possible Pathological Causes

As anticipated, the cause of borborigmas can be absolutely physiological or - in the case of increased frequency and intensity - be accompanied by morbid conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, bleeding and intestinal obstructions. In all these situations, borborigmas are typically associated with other gastrointestinal symptoms, such as bloating, abdominal cramps, diarrhea and meteorism.

The exalted perception of borborigmas after a meal can also be linked to the ingestion of foods to which one is intolerant (for example milk) or otherwise able to promote the genesis of intestinal gases (legumes, foods rich in sugars, meals too much abundant and variegated).

Ultimately, strong borborigmas can also be due to taking particular drugs that interfere with nutrient absorption; this is the case, for example, of acarbose used in the presence of diabetes or obesity.