Bowel sounds are the noises made by the movement of the intestines as they process food and fluids. These sounds are produced by the contractions of the intestinal muscles, which help mix and propel contents through the digestive tract. They can vary in frequency and intensity, often described as gurgling, rumbling, or clicking noises. Healthcare professionals often listen to bowel sounds using a stethoscope to assess digestive health. Normal bowel sounds occur several times a minute, while decreased or absent sounds may indicate issues such as ileus or bowel obstruction. Increased sounds can suggest conditions like gastroenteritis or diarrhea.