Causes of Underarm Odor

The sweat glands located throughout the body produce sweat to help cool the body when its temperature rises. The primary function of sweat is to maintain a suitable body temperature. Interestingly, sweat itself is odorless; however, it can develop an unpleasant smell when broken down by bacteria present on the skin’s surface. It is important to note that there are two main types of sweat glands:

The Eccrine Sweat Glands, which are distributed across most of the body and secrete sweat directly onto the skin surface.
The Apocrine Sweat Glands, primarily found in areas containing hair follicles, such as the underarms and genital region, which release sweat into hair follicles before it reaches the skin’s surface.

Below, we explore the primary causes of underarm odor in detail:

Bacteria

Generally, the interaction between sweat and bacteria leads to body odor. As mentioned earlier, sweat is inherently odorless. However, bacteria decompose certain proteins in sweat into acids, producing the unpleasant odor. Furthermore, bacterial growth accelerates in moist areas of the body, such as the underarm region, where sweat accumulates.

Diet

The consumption of specific food items and beverages can also result in the secretion of foul-smelling sweat from the eccrine sweat glands. Common culprits include garlic and various spices.

Medications

Some medications can lead to increased sweating, which may alter body odor. Notable examples include certain antidepressants like Desipramine and Nortriptyline.

Health Issues

A range of health challenges and diseases can contribute to unpleasant body odor:

Diabetes: This condition arises when the body cannot produce or utilize insulin effectively, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. If left uncontrolled, it may result in diabetic ketoacidosis, which is characterized by a distinctive, foul odor in sweat, in addition to a fruity breath. Diabetes is one of the most common causes of unpleasant body odor.
Kidney and Liver Diseases: Both organs play a crucial role in detoxifying the body. When affected by disease, their functions can become impaired, potentially altering the odor and intensity of sweat. A foul smell, especially when accompanied by other symptoms such as changes in urine, may indicate liver or kidney issues and warrants prompt medical attention.
Hyperthyroidism: Increased sweating may also be associated with an overactive thyroid gland, resulting in body odor.

Tips for Preventing Underarm Odor

Here are several recommendations for managing and preventing underarm odor effectively:

Maintain overall hygiene in the underarm area to eliminate odor-causing bacteria.
Shower daily, especially after engaging in physical activities, and change into clean clothes afterward.
Wear loose-fitting and comfortable clothing, particularly for those prone to excessive sweating. Choose fabrics that allow for airflow, such as cotton and linen, which help keep the body cooler compared to tighter clothing.
Utilize anxiety and stress reduction techniques, as stress can trigger increased sweating. Implementing these practices can improve mental well-being and decrease stress-related perspiration.

When to Consult a Doctor

Certain circumstances associated with foul body odor may require a doctor’s consultation to rule out particular health conditions and identify appropriate treatment. Key reasons to seek medical advice include:

Persistent underarm odor despite trying various deodorants and antiperspirants.
Unexpected changes in body odor without any clear explanation.
Continued unpleasant odor even after following standard hygiene practices.