Treatment for a sudden change in body odor

Posted by Master, Doctor Mai Vien Phuong - Department of Examination & Internal Medicine - Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital

Everyone has a unique body odor (BO), which can be pleasant or subtle. Changes in body odor can be caused by puberty, excessive sweating, and sudden changes are often caused by environment, drugs, etc. However, body odor, especially sudden and persistent changes. Persistent to your normal smell, which can sometimes be a sign of an underlying medical condition.

A sudden change in body odor usually occurs in a specific area of ​​the body. Common areas include:
Genitals Armpits Legs Mouth and throat Navel You may also notice a sudden odor from stool, urine, earwax, or genital secretions. Regardless of the location, the smell may be different. It can be foul, pungent, fishy, ​​sour, bitter, or even sweet.
Other symptoms you experience will depend on the cause. If the change in smell is due to an infection, the smell may also be accompanied by:
Red Rash Itching Drainage or discoloration

Your environment, things you eat, medications you take, changes in hormone levels or underlying disorders can all lead to a sudden change in body odor.
Changes in body odor can be a normal part of development, such as when teenagers go through puberty. During puberty, sweat glands and hormones become more active, which can cause BO.
If you're exercising, excessive sweating could be the culprit. If you don't wear sweat-resistant clothing or practice healthy hygiene habits, sweat can mix with bacteria, causing unpleasant odors.
If body odor is persistent and accompanied by other symptoms, it could be a sign of an underlying medical condition.

If your hyperhidrosis is secondary to an underlying condition, treating that condition will help improve your symptoms. If it's due to a certain medication, talk to your doctor about adjustments.
If the cause is unknown, there are several treatments that may help:
Prescription creams or antiperspirants Medicines See a mental health professional and practice relaxation techniques Surgery Botox It It can also help with lifestyle changes such as bathing daily, choosing clothes based on natural, breathable materials, and changing socks often to keep feet fresh.

Although many infections are not serious, they need to be treated promptly to avoid complications.
Infections will be treated differently depending on the cause and severity. Treatments are usually carried out with antibiotics or antifungal drugs. They are usually topical, but can also be taken orally or intravenously.
Check how to treat each of the following infections:
Yeast infections Bacterial vaginosis Trichomoniasis Ear infections Skin infections

If you have symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis, in which you have a fruity breath, you should seek medical attention urgently.
Control of diabetes is to adequately manage your blood glucose level. The best way to control diabetes is with medications, alternative treatments or natural remedies.

If changes in body odor are caused by foods, you can avoid them and increase variety in your diet.
If you have a vitamin deficiency, your doctor can detect it with a simple blood test. You can get more of these vitamins by adding certain foods to your diet or by taking a supplement.
If the side effect of the medication you are taking is an unpleasant change in your body odor, talk to your doctor. They can help you discuss your options, or adjust your dosage or switch to a different medication.
Do not stop taking any medicine until you have talked to your doctor.

Athlete's foot is often very responsive to home treatments including:
Powders, sprays, ointments and over-the-counter antifungal creams hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol Oils like tea tree or neem powder sea ​​salt bath

Cancer itself usually doesn't have an odor, but having an infected wound associated with it can.
If you notice a sudden change in body odor and are diagnosed with cancer, talk to your doctor. They can treat infected wounds.

Some sudden changes in body odor can increase your healthy hygiene habits. Here are some tips for better hygiene practices:
Use an antiperspirant or deodorant: You can use a store-bought deodorant, a more natural one, or even homemade. Whatever you choose, these products can help control sweat and body odor. Take care of your feet: Make sure your feet don't stay in a wet environment for long. If your socks are damp, change them. For healthy feet, you should also make sure your shoes fit properly and use a pumice stone to reduce calluses. Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth and tongue. Dentists usually recommend brushing twice a day for two minutes each time. Gently clean sensitive areas: Sensitive areas can include your genital area, anus, and ears. Do not douche, but use gentle cleansers to keep the genitals healthy. Gently rinse the ear with warm, not hot water to remove earwax and clean the ear canal. Create a shower routine that's right for you: How often you shower is down to personal preference, but if you're experiencing unwanted body odor, you may want to increase your shower frequency. Showering will help remove dead cells, dirt, bacteria and oil from the skin. If teenagers go through puberty, a change in body odor is completely normal. Encourage the practice of the above useful healthy habits.
If the change in body odor is mild and not accompanied by worrisome symptoms, it could be due to hormone changes. You don't have to deal with this change unless it bothers you.

You should seek medical treatment if:
You have any change in smell accompanied by signs of infection Odor may be related to toxin poisoning You have been diagnosed with cancer Your diabetes you are poorly managed, or you believe you may have diabetic ketoacidosis The odor is accompanied by pain, bleeding, or other serious symptoms Odor that does not go away Sudden changes in body odor usually do not Should be a sign of anything serious. The simplest way to tell if you should be concerned is how long the smell lasts, if it's specifically related to something, or if it's accompanied by other symptoms.
If the sudden smell worries you and it persists, you should not make an appointment with your doctor or call your doctor or nurse for advice.
Vinmec International General Hospital is one of the hospitals that not only ensures professional quality with a team of leading medical doctors, modern equipment and technology, but also stands out for its examination and consultation services. comprehensive and professional medical consultation and treatment; civilized, polite, safe and sterile medical examination and treatment space.