Working or living in close quarters with someone with an unusual smell or body odor can be uncomfortable. It can be embarrassing to discuss and frustrating to deal with. Smells and odors can be caused by a variety of factors including medical conditions, diet and poor hygiene. If you are the person with the unpleasant smell, determining the cause and finding a solution may be easier than you think.
Anaerobic Bacteria
Underarm odor is caused by perspiration. Sweating from exercise, hot weather and anxiety can produce this perspiration. However, sweat is actually odorless. Bacteria on the skin flourish in moist areas lacking oxygen, or anaerobic conditions. The result of this bacteria proliferation is the unpleasant underarm odor often referred to as B.O, or body odor.
Hormones
As pre-teens enter puberty, hormones begin to surge. Sweat glands produce underarm moisture, which can begin to smell. Depending on the child, this change can begin as young as 9 years old. As this occurs, you may want to provide your child with a deodorant and antiperspirant to decrease the odor. During menopause, high levels of estrogen lead to hot flashes and increased perspiration precipitating odor.
Yeast
Sweat accumulation on the bottom of the feet can lead to the production of yeast. Enclosed in socks and shoes, the yeast have the opportunity to rapidly multiply, intensifying the odor. Synthetic socks may also increase the growth of yeast. Smelly feet are commonplace in locker rooms.
Diabetes
People with diabetes may give off a fruity or sweet smell from their breath. This smell is caused by a condition called ketoacidosis, which develops as a result of poor blood sugar management. The National Institutes of Health stated that this occurs, "as the body attempts to get rid of excess acetone through the breathing." This condition requires immediate treatment as it could be life threatening.
Liver Disease
Patients with hepatic encephalopathy or liver disease may show signs of this disease with a strange odor on their breath. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), their breath may have a musty or sweet odor. NIH states that this and other symptoms may be mild at first and gradually worsen. This odor would likely be noticed by caregivers and family.
Bacterial Vaginosis
A condition called bacterial vaginosis can give the vagina a fishy smell. This odor may be strongest after sex or after washing with soap. It is most commonly caused by the Gardnerella vaginalis bacteria and its causes are not known. To treat this condition, the woman must take an antibiotic.
Diet
Body chemistry can play a part in your natural scent, including the odor you emit. For instance, you may smell of fish if your body cannot properly metabolize large quantities of protein. Strong flavors such as onions, garlic and curry can give off a strong body odor. Alcohol and coffee consumed in excess are also a primary cause of offensive odors.
Poor Hygiene
Sometimes body odor is simply caused by poor hygiene. Failure to bathe on a regular basis or adequately wash clothing can result in strong odors. Poor bathroom habits can increase body odor as well. Men with poor care of an uncircumcised penis and women who do not properly wipe to prevent the introduction of bacteria may have odors. The American Dental Association describes halitosis or bad breath as being caused by "food that collects between the teeth, on the tongue and around the gums can rot, leaving an unpleasant odor."
Medications
Occasionally medications--including prescription, over the counter, herbs and vitamin supplements--may cause a strange body odor. Typically, this is a less common side effect of medication but is a possibility and one you should mention to your doctor if you notice an odor after starting a new drug. Topamax, a medication used for migraines, is one medication that may have a side effect of body odor, according to the Migraine Awareness Group.
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