Everyone sweats. Perspiration is the natural process to regulate body temperature. Body odor that accompanies the sweat, however, can be embarrassing. Sweat produced to cool the body consists of water, salt and trace amounts of electrolytes and has no odor. The odor occurs when the sweat comes in contact with bacteria on the skin surface.
Characteristics
Sweat cools the body when it is overheated, such as during exercise or in warm weather, according to the Mayo Clinic. The body also perspires in response to emotional triggers, such as nervousness, anxiety or stress.
Sweat Glands
Different types of glands produce different types of sweat, explains the Mayo Clinic. Eccrine glands are distributed over the entire body and produce perspiration made up of water, salt and electrolytes that cools the body and regulates the fluid balance. Apocrine glands are concentrated in hairy areas, such as the armpits, groin and scalp. Apocrine glands release sweat containing fats into the tubules of hair follicles. The tubules contract in response to an emotional stimulus--for example, nervousness--which pushes the apocrine sweat to the skin surface. Once it reaches the surface, bacteria begin breaking down apocrine sweat, causing odor.
Treatment
Aluminum-containing antiperspirants control sweat by temporarily blocking pores so perspiration cannot reach the surface, says the Mayo Clinic. Deodorants help control odor by changing the acid balance of the skin to make it uninviting to bacteria. Many deodorants contain fragrance to mask body odor. Deodorants alone are ineffective in reducing the amount of sweat released to the skin surface. Prescription-strength products are available if over-the-counter remedies fail to control odor and moistness.
Prevention
Daily bathing prevents odor by removing bacteria lingering on the skin. The Mayo Clinic recommends drying thoroughly, especially the feet, to prevent bacterial growth. Wear shoes and clothes made from natural materials, such as cotton, leather or wool, to allow your skin to breathe and reduce moisture. Change socks often and wear a different pair of shoes every day to allow the inside of shoes to dry thoroughly. Apply antiperspirants to your armpits and the soles of your feet. Reduce stress through relaxation exercises.
Reasons for Concern
Persistent body odor and excessive perspiration cause emotional difficulties for some people, says the Global Healing Center. People with problem perspiration have trouble forming social relationships and may feel isolated and embarrassed. Excessive sweating may also signal underlying medical conditions, according to the website Health 911. Diabetes, metabolic disorders or liver disease may produce especially heavy sweating. Sweating may also be a symptom of menopause or heightened emotional stress.
Member Comments