Body odor is natural and a part of life. However, sometimes it can become a problem if it is unusually strong or smells unpleasant. Apart from being a social problem, unpleasant body odor may be a sign of an underlying health condition.

Here are some causes of body odor and when you should see a doctor for help.

What causes body odor?

Body odor is a result of the bacteria breaking down sweat on the skin. Sweat does not actually smell, but the bacteria feeding on it does. The type of sweat glands you have also affects body odor.

There are two types of sweat glands, apocrine and eccrine glands. Apocrine glands are mainly located in the armpits, groin, and facial hair. They produce a thicker fluid that contains proteins and lipids that the bacteria feed on.

Eccrine glands, on the other hand, produce a thin, watery sweat that does not contain proteins or lipids. They are all over the body and help regulate the body temperature.

Other factors that can contribute to body odor include diet, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions. For instance, foods like garlic, onions, and spices can cause strong body odors.

Some medications like antidepressants, antibiotics, and blood pressure medications can change the smell of sweat. Medical conditions like diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and kidney disease can cause a change in body odor.

When should you see the doctor?

If you have suddenly developed a new and unusual body odor, you should consult your doctor. This is especially so if the change is accompanied by other symptoms like fever, night sweats, weight loss, and changes in bowel habits.

Some medical conditions that can cause a change in body odor include:.

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1. Diabetes

People with diabetes may have a fruity or sweet-smelling odor to their sweat due to high levels of glucose (sugar) in their blood. Poorly controlled diabetes can also lead to skin infections that smell bad.

If you have not been diagnosed with diabetes, but have an unexplained fruity or sweet smell to your sweat, see your doctor.

2. Liver disease

Liver disease like cirrhosis can cause a musty, sweet odor due to increased levels of dimethyl sulfide in the body. The odor can come from the breath, sweat, and urine.

3. Kidney disease

Kidney disease can cause a fish-like odor due to the buildup of toxins in the body that are normally filtered by the kidneys. This odor can come from the breath and urine.

4. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. It can cause a fishy or musty odor due to increased metabolic activity in the body.

5. TMAU (Trimethylaminuria)

TMAU is a rare genetic condition where the body cannot break down trimethylamine, a byproduct of fish, eggs, and milk. The buildup of trimethylamine in the body can lead to a strong fishy odor in the breath, sweat, and urine.

6. Stress and anxiety

Stress and anxiety can cause increased sweating and changes in body odor. People who suffer from stress and anxiety-related disorders like panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder may experience this symptom.

Conclusion

Body odor is usually a normal part of life, but in some cases, it may be a sign of an underlying medical condition. If you have an unusual or strong body odor that is persistent, see your doctor for an evaluation.

They can help you identify the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.