It’s no secret that the human body emits various odors from time to time.

However, did you know that the scent your body produces can indicate an underlying health issue? In this article, we will explore some of the illnesses that can be detected through body odor.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a disease that affects the body’s ability to produce or use insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.

Those with uncontrolled diabetes often have a fruity, sweet smell to their breath and urine due to high levels of ketones in the body. This scent is often described as smelling like acetone or nail polish remover.

Kidney Disease

Kidney disease can cause a buildup of waste products in the blood that can lead to an unpleasant, ammonia-like odor on the breath and skin.

Additionally, those with advanced kidney disease may have a metallic taste in their mouth or a fishy odor to their breath.

Liver Disease

Liver disease can often cause an odor described as musty or sweet. This scent is associated with a buildup of toxins in the body that the liver is unable to adequately filter out.

Thyroid Problems

When the thyroid gland is overactive (hyperthyroidism), it can cause excessive sweating and a musty odor.

Conversely, an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can result in a decreased ability to sweat, leading to a buildup of bacteria on the skin and an unpleasant odor.

Bowel Issues

Malodorous gas, flatulence, and bowel movements can all be signs of digestive issues and imbalances in the gut.

Related Article Is your body scent a sign of illness?

Bacterial overgrowth in the gut can lead to a sulfuric, rotten egg smell, while increased intake of red meat or a diet low in fiber can cause a strong, putrid odor to emanate from the stool.

Respiratory Issues

A chronic lung condition like bronchiectasis can lead to persistent odor problems. The cough that comes with conditions like bronchiectasis will rid the body of the mucus that clogs the airways.

But this mucus also creates a damp environment ripe for bacterial growth, leading to a foul odor. Infections of the sinus similarly (sinusitis) create a moist environment prime for bacterial growth and a resulting stench.

Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is a condition where the body produces excessive amounts of sweat. This condition is usually limited to one or two areas of the body, such as the underarms or feet.

When sweat mixes with the bacteria on our skin, it can cause a strong, pungent odor.

Cancer

A common phenomenon with cancer is that the disease can throw the body’s chemical balance off causing a strong and particular smell to emanate from the body.

Some describe tumors as smelling like grapes, and others compare the smell to that of rotting cheese. Cancer of the cervix or uterus can also cause a foul and unpleasant odor to waft from the vagina.

Conclusion

While body odor alone is not enough to make a definitive diagnosis, it can be a significant indicator that something is amiss in your body.

If you are experiencing any of the scents described above or other unusual body odors, it’s best to seek medical attention. By identifying and treating the underlying medical issue promptly, many of the unpleasant odors can be reduced or eliminated.