Bowel Cancer and Stomach Noises: When to Worry

Understanding Stomach Noises: Stomach noises are a common occurrence. Sometimes when we are hungry or after eating something, we hear noises from the stomach. This is medically called borborygmi. These noises are usually normal, but if they are excessive and accompanied by some other symptoms, then it could be a sign of a serious health issue, like bowel cancer. Today we will understand this topic in detail.

The Connection Between Stomach Noises and Bowel Cancer

Bowel cancer, which occurs in the colon or rectum, does not show any specific symptoms in the beginning. But there are some signs that can indicate it. If stomach noises are accompanied by these symptoms, then it can be a symptom of bowel cancer:

• Stomach pain and noise: If you have a lot of noise along with stomach pain, then it can be a sign of some problem in the digestive system.
• Change in bowel habits: Constipation or diarrhea, or blood in stool.
• Weight loss: Weight is decreasing without any reason.
• Fatigue: Feeling excessive fatigue.

If these symptoms persist for more than 3 weeks, you should consult a doctor.

Pancreatic Cancer and Stomach Noises

Pancreatic cancer can also be the cause of stomach noises. In this, the balance of enzymes of the pancreas gets disturbed, which causes problems in digestion and noises come from the stomach. But it also has symptoms like jaundice (yellow skin/eyes), upper abdominal pain, and sudden diabetes.

When to Worry About Stomach Noises?

Stomach noises are usually normal, but if they are accompanied by the following symptoms, you should be concerned:

• Stomach pain: If the pain is frequent and the sound is louder.
• Bleeding: There is blood in the stool.
• Weight loss: You are losing weight without any effort.
• Family history: If someone in your family has had bowel cancer.

According to the NHS, if you have these symptoms for more than 3 weeks, talk to your doctor.

Also Read: 10 Early Warning Signs of Lung Cancer You Should Never Ignore

Bowel Cancer Stomach Noises After Eating: Should You Be Concerned?

It is normal to have a noise in the stomach after eating food, but if this noise is excessive and there is pain or discomfort, then it can be a sign of bowel cancer. The intestine can get blocked due to the tumor, due to which the food is not digested properly and there is a lot of noise.

Bowel Cancer Stomach Noises: NHS Guidelines

According to the NHS:

• Screening: A free FIT test is available for people aged 60-74. In some areas, people aged 50+ can also have this test.
• Symptoms: If symptoms persist for more than 3 weeks, consult a GP.
• Risk Factors: Age, low fibre diet, smoking, or family history can increase the risk of bowel cancer.

Early detection can make bowel cancer treatment easier, so don’t ignore symptoms.

Also Read: Early Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer and What to Do Next

FAQs: Bowel Cancer Stomach Noises

Conclusion:

Stomach noises are usually normal, but if they are severe and accompanied by other symptoms, talk to a doctor. Early detection can make bowel cancer easier to treat. Make use of NHS resources and screenings and look after your health.

Note: This article is for general information. Consult a doctor for any health issue.

References:

1. NHS – Bowel Cancer Symptoms
   https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/bowel-cancer/symptoms/
2. NHS – When to Worry About Stomach Noises
   https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/digestive-health/
3. Cancer Research UK – Bowel Cancer Signs and Symptoms
   https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/bowel-cancer/symptoms
4. NHS – Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms
   https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pancreatic-cancer/symptoms/
5. NHS – Bowel Cancer Screening
   https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/bowel-cancer-screening/
6. Mayo Clinic – Stomach Noises (Borborygmi)
   https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/borborygmi/symptoms-causes/syc-20351429