Underarm, or axillary, odor in infants and toddlers is becoming more common. There are a few possible causes as to why early underarm odor develops. In some cases, this odor may require treatment from a health care professional and may be attributed to hormonal disorders. Puberty is the normal phase for underarm odor to develop and is usually apparent with girls around the age of 8 and boys the age of 9. Children, however, as young as 18 months old have been reported as having increased incidence of underarm odor.
Identification
The hormone production responsible for growth into adulthood comes partly from the adrenal glands that are located on top of the kidneys. These glands produce estrogen and testosterone and, as a child ages, production increases steadily. Young children are starting to show signs of high adrenal gland hormone production as early as 18 months old. This can lead not only to an increase in body odor but also early signs of pubic hair and acne as well.
Possible Causes
Hormone production is just one possible problem these children are facing. Hormones found in meats and non-organic dairy may play a role in axillary odor in toddlers. Although there is no research to back up these claims, some mothers have reported changing their child's diet to a strictly organic one and thus eliminating the problem. According to health care professionals at the eCureMe website, African American toddlers are at a greater risk for premature axillary odor, showing that it may be a genetic disorder as well. Bacteria under the arms plays a large role in underarm odor as well. Bacteria can cause infection, which can in turn, cause body odor.
Treatment
Treatment options for early axillary odor depend on the cause. Some children respond well to an over-the-counter (OTC) deodorant or antiperspirant. Not all parents like this idea since a toddler's skin can be sensitive. The products can cause rash and dry skin. In other cases of early axillary odor, toddlers were given topical antibiotics for parents to apply to the underarm two to three times daily. This is usually given to toddlers whose condition is brought on by high amounts of bacterial growth. Keeping the toddler's underarms clean and dry can help reduce odor strength.
Social Obstacles
Toddlers are at the stage where they are beginning to develop strong social skills that will pave the way for public and personal interaction for the rest of their lives. Axillary odor may cause embarrassment to the child and damage social skill development if left untreated. The odor may cause other children to shy away from playing with your child, and some other parents may see it as a sign that you do not properly care for your toddler. It is important to remember that you do care for your child and that the other parents are just not educated about early axillary odor. An explanation may be necessary. Other children may not be so understanding. It is important for you to intercede on your child's behalf.
Growth
Toddlers grow and, soon enough, will not be a victim of early axillary odor, only regular axillary odor. With axillary odor, the emotional support you provide to your child will go a long way toward his self esteem. Encouragement and love are critical to all toddlers in the developmental stages; encouragement and love serve as a building block for future relationships.
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