Stomach Noises and Colon Cancer: When to Consult A Doctor

Bowel cancer is a very serious condition and it’s important to be aware of the warning signs. One of the lesser known symptoms of bowel cancer is stomach noises or gurgling. While these noises may be normal in some cases, if they become more frequent or louder, it could be an indication of something more serious.

When we eat, our intestines contract and relax as they move food though our digestive tract. These sounds are normal and can be heard when listening with a stethoscope. However, if the sound becomes louder or more frequent, it could indicate that something is wrong. This can be especially concerning if accompanied by other symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating or changes in bowel habits such as looser stools or no bowel movements for days.

If you are experiencing any abnormal stomach noises along with other signs such as those described above, it’s important to seek medical advice immediately. When caught early enough, bowel cancer can often be treated effectively with surgery and other treatments.

It is also important to remember that not all stomach noises mean there is something wrong; some people experience them during hunger or digestion which are perfectly normal occurrences. If you are unsure about your symptoms, speak to your doctor for further advice on what steps you should take next.

The Effects of Colon Cancer on Bowel Sounds

No, colon cancer does not cause increased bowel sounds. In some cases, a gurgling sound in the bowel may be indicative of colon cancer. However, this is typically accompanied by other warning signs such as abdominal pain, bloating or changes in bowel habits like constipation or diarrhea. If you experience any of these symptoms along with a gurgling sound in your bowels, you should speak with your doctor for further evaluation and diagnosis.

upset stomach 1674348165

Early Warning Signs of Bowel Cancer

The early warning signs of bowel cancer can vary, but the most common symptoms include:
-Blood in your stools (faeces) which may appear as bright red or very dark and tarry.
-A change in your normal bowel habits such as more frequent, looser stools, or constipation.
-Abdominal (tummy) pain, especially if it is persistent or recurring.
-Unexplained weight loss.
-Fatigue and a general feeling of being unwell.
-Anaemia, which is a decrease in red blood cells that can case tiredness and a lack of energy.

It’s important to note that these symptoms are very common and may not necessarily indicate bowel cancer; however, it’s still important to seek medical advice if any of these symptoms persist for more than four weeks. Early detection can help improve the chances of successful treatment so don’t delay making an appointment with your doctor if you experience any of these warning signs.

When Is It Necessary to Seek Medical Attention for Abnormal Stomach Noises?

If you are experiencing stomach noises that are accompanied by pain, bloating, or changes in your bowel movements, such as loose stools or not having any bowel movements for days, then it is important to contact your doctor right away. While stomach noises are a normal part of hunger and digestion, if other symptoms accompany them it can be an indication of a more serious medical issue.

Indications of Loud Bowel Sounds

Loud bowel sounds, also known as hyperactive bowel sounds, indicate an increase in intestinal activity. This may be caused by a variety of things such as diarrhea, eating, or even certain medications. Hyperactive bowel sounds are often louder than normal and can sometimes be heard without the use of a stethoscope.

Causes of Excessive Stomach Gurgling

Excessive stomach gurgling, also known as borborygmi, is caused by increased gas production in the intestines. This can be caused by a variety of factors including food intolerances, excessive consumption of carbonated beverages or alcohol, or certain medications. Eating too quickly or consuming large amounts of fiber can also cause excessive stomach gurgling. Additionally, consuming high-fat or high-sugar foods can slow digestion and cause borborygmi. In some cases, excessive stomach gurgling can be an indicator of an underlying digestive disorder such as irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn’s disease.

bowel cancer stomach noises
Source: healthcentral.com

Signs and Symptoms of Bowel Cancer

No, feeling generally unwell is not a common symptom of bowel cancer. However, some people may experience some discomfort and other more vague symptoms, such as fatigue, bloating or a change in their bowel habits. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms that persist for more than a few weeks, it is important to check with your doctor as soon as possible.

Signs and Symptoms of Bowel Cancer

It is important to understand that not everyone will experience the same symptoms of colon cancer, and some people may not experience any symptoms at all. However, most people with colon cancer will usually begin to experience symptoms after the cancer has been growing for a period of time. While there is no definitive answer as to how long it can take for someone to notice they have bowel cancer, it typically takes around 10-15 years from the development of an adenomatous polyp before the cancer begins to cause noticeable symptoms. During this time, the polyp can slowly grow larger and become malignant (cancerous). Symptoms of colon cancer can include blood in your stool, abdominal pain or discomfort, changes in bowel habits such as diarrhoea or constipation, fatigue, unexpected weight loss and feeling very full after eating. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or if you are worried about your risk for colon cancer then it is important to speak with your doctor for further evaluation.

Signs and Symptoms of Bowel Cancer

The pain associated with bowel cancer can start in the lower abdominal area (tummy) and may be persistent or only occur when you eat. It may also be accompanied by bloating or discomfort, as well as a loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to speak to your doctor as soon as possible.

The Possibility of Having Bowel Cancer Without Knowing for a Long Time

Yes, it is possible to have bowel cancer for a long time without knowing. Bowel cancer can develop and grow slowly over many years before symptoms appear. This is why regular screening for bowel cancer is so important; it can detect the disease at an early stage when the chance of successful treatment is higher. In some cases, people may not experience any symptoms until the cancer has reached an advanced stage. Symptoms that may be associted with bowel cancer can include changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation), abdominal pain, and blood in the stool. If you experience any of these symptoms or have concerns about your risk for developing bowel cancer, speak to your doctor as soon as possible.

bowel cancer stomach noises
Source: womansday.com

Abnormal Stomach Sounds

Abnormal stomach sounds are any sounds that deviate from the normal rhythmic gurgling noises associated with healthy digestion. Abnormal stomach sounds may include high-pitched noises, clicking, rumbling, roaring, or grumbling. These abnormal sounds can be a sign of an underlying medical condition such as gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If you notice any changes in your abdominal sounds, contact your doctor as soon as possible to receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Types of Bowel Sounds

The four types of bowel sounds are normal, hypoactive, hyperactive, and absent. Normal bowel sounds are regular and consistent ‘gurgling’ noises that occur as the intestines move food through the digestive system. Hypoactive bowel sounds are very faint or non-existent and can indicate a problem with the digestive system. Hyperactive bowel sounds occur when there is an increase in movement in the intestines, which can be caused by certain medications or medical conditions. Absent bowel sounds indicate a complete lack of sound coming from the intestines and can be caused by certain medical conditions or a blockage.

The Impact of Irritable Bowel Syndrome on Stomach Gurgling

Yes, stomach gurgling is a common symptom of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). It is caused by increased gas production in the intestines and changes in how quickly food moves through the digestive system. The gurgling noises are created when gas bubbles move through the intestines. While this can be an uncomfortable symptom, it is generally not indicative of a serious condition and should improve with lifestyle modifications and proper treatment.

Abnormal Bowel Sounds: What Do They Sound Like?

Abnormal bowel sounds can sound like a variety of different things. They can be high-pitched tinkling, which is usually the result of tension of air or fluid in a loop of dilated bowel and suggests obstruction. They can also be loud gurgling, which suggests an imbalance between the speed and force of contractions in the intestine. Other abnormal sounds may include high-pitched squeaks, which indicate that peristalsis is too rapid or too slow, or prolonged grumbling noises, which suggest spasms in the intestine.

bowel sound 1674348214

The Normalcy of Hearing Bowel Sounds

Yes, it is completely normal to hear your bowel sounds. Bowel sounds are the noises made by the movement of gastric juices and food through your intestines as they digest and absorb nutrients. They can sound like gurgling, rumbling, or growling, and are typically heard through a stethoscope. The presence of bowel sounds indicates that your digestive system is functioning normally. If you have concerns about the loudness or frequency of your bowel sounds, it is best to consult with your doctor for further evaluation.

Signs and Symptoms of Small Bowel Obstruction, Including Bowel Sounds

Bowel sounds with small bowel obstruction are typically hyperactive and loud, with a tinkling or metallic sound. This is in contrast to normal bowel sounds, which are soft and low-pitched. The increased intensity of bowel sounds in small bowel obstruction is due to the accumulation of fluid and gas within the small intestine, as well as increased peristaltic activity as the body attempts to push the obstruction through. In addition, some patients may experience high-pitched or gurgling noises due to air passing though narrowed passages. Patients often report an uncomfortable feeling of fullness that worsens with movement. While these symptoms can help aid in diagnosis, they should not be used as a substitute for further testing such as imaging studies or endoscopy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, stomach noises can be a sign of colon cancer if they are accompanied by other warning signs, such as blood in the stool, a change in bowel habits, and abdominal pain. However, these noises are more likely to be normal sounds associated with hunger and digestion. If you hear stomach noises and experience any other signs or symptoms of bowel cancer, it is important to see your doctor for an evaluation. Hyperactive bowel sounds are also normal and may occur after eating or with diarrhea. If you experience decreased or absent bowel sounds this may indicate constipation.

Photo of author

William Armstrong

William Armstrong is a senior editor with H-O-M-E.org, where he writes on a wide variety of topics. He has also worked as a radio reporter and holds a degree from Moody College of Communication. William was born in Denton, TX and currently resides in Austin.