Body Odour

What is Body Odour

The body produces two different kinds of sweat, eccrine and apocrine. Neither type of sweat has an odour, but apocrine reacts with the bacteria on our skin. As the bacteria break down the apocrine, the musty, stale smell we know as BO occurs. Some people's apocrine glands are bigger and more active than others. Similarly, some of us have more tenacious skin bacteria. Some people may find that they sweat much more than normal, a condition known as hyperhydrosis.

Everyone has their own body odour, as unique as a thumbprint. The Australian Civil Service has actually explored using body odour as a security method to restrict access to classified information on computers! However, though body odour may be a necessary and individual trait, when it becomes offensive to others it can be very embarrassing.

What are the Symptoms of Body Odour

Sometimes a bad smell can in fact be a symptom of something worse. If you notice any of the following body odours, or any consistent odour that is not your normal personal smell, you may need to consult your GP for tests:

• A beery smell could indicate a yeast condition.
• The smell of nail polish remover could indicate diabetes.
• An ammonia smell could indicate liver disease.
• A fishy smell could indicate a metabolic disorder.

What are the Causes of Body Odour

Certain unusual-smelling body odours are symptoms of more serious complaints Sweat cools us down and lubricates those parts of the body that rub against each other, such as the crotch or the armpits. Actually, the body produces two different kinds of sweat, eccrine and apocrine. Neither type of sweat has an odour, but apocrine reacts with the bacteria on our skin. As the bacteria break down the apocrine, the musty, stale smell we know as BO occurs.

Traditional Medical Treatments for Body Odour

Although body odor is commonly associated with hygiene.Specific anti perspirants are available to reduce sweating.Botox can be used to reduce hyperhidrosis which can be beneficial for up to 6 months. An operation called a cervical sympathectomy can reduce sweating but one can get compensatory sweating in another body location. Surgery is not without risks.

Complementaty/Alternative Treatments for Body Odour

Regular bathing is the key to helping body odour. However if this is not helping we recomend speaking to a specialist who may be able to help.