What is borborygmus?

Borborygmus refers specifically to the sounds produced by the movement of gas and fluid in the intestines. These sounds often occur during digestion and are a normal part of the gastrointestinal process. When the intestines contract to mix and propel food and gas, the resulting gurgling or rumbling noises are what is described by the term borborygmus.

Understanding borborygmus is significant in medical contexts because it can indicate the function of the digestive system. While these sounds are generally normal, they can also provide clues to digestive issues if the sounds are excessively loud or accompanied by other symptoms. The other choices describe conditions or symptoms that do not pertain directly to the definition of borborygmus, making them incorrect in this context.