Body odor is what you smell when your sweat comes in contact with the bacteria on your skin. Sweat itself doesn’t even smell, but when the bacteria on the skin mixes with the sweat, it causes an odor. Body odor can smell sweet, sour, tangy or like onions. Body is a serious issue that shouldn’t be swept under the rug because it can adversely affect a person’s life and daily activities. Body odor and excessive sweating may also be indicators of an underlying health condition. If a person notices unexpected changes in their body odor or volume of sweat, they should consult a medical professional immediately. So today, we are going to be discussing some factors or symptoms that causes body odor.
FACTORS
Poor personal hygiene: One major cause of body odor is poor personal hygiene. Once you don’t shower regularly or well even, sweat accumulates into your skin. Keep your skin clean by taking a daily bath or shower with antibacterial soap. Focus on the areas where you sweat the most like your armpits and private areas. Removing some of the bacteria on the skin can prevent unpleasant body odor. While bathing regularly, also add perfumes and body spray to have a long-lasting pleasant smell.
Diet: The foods you eat can sometimes cause a sudden, temporary change in body odor. For instance, many people experience a sudden, strong smell from their urine after eating asparagus. The smell will go away once the food is metabolized, unless it’s eaten daily. Certain foods can also cause you to produce more gas, which may lead to belching or flatulence. Depending on the foods you eat, and how much gas you produce, this could create a foul smell. Basically, your overall diet can also affect body odor.
Stress: Stress and anxiety can occasionally cause you to sweat more, leading to a stronger body odor. If you have hyperhidrosis disorder, you sweat excessively and uncontrollably, sometimes for no apparent reason. Some people develop this disorder due to genetics, an underlying health condition, or while taking certain medications. According to 2016 research, hyperhidrosis and stress are connected. Many people who develop this condition experience stress, especially if the excess sweating affects their self-esteem or confidence.
Skin infections: If your skin develops an infection, either new or due to a preexisting condition, you may experience a sudden smell at the site of the infection. This will definitely cause a foul smell if not treated on time, and this kind of infections can be a bacterial infection of underarm follicles or yeast infection.
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR
Some medical conditions may change how much a person sweats or the odor their body produces. These can be indicators of more serious conditions. If a should person notice any of these changes, they should contact a doctor immediately.
