Body odor in children can occur for many reasons. Most children experience body odor during adolescence. But body odor in younger children is often caused by other conditions. Even though most of these conditions are harmless, it's important to understand what causes child body odor and how to treat it. This knowledge can help prevent negative emotional and physical side effects in a child.
Puberty
According to the FamilyEducation website, older children who experience body odor may be entering puberty. This condition usually occurs in adolescence, around 10 to 12 years old, but happens as young as 7 or 8. During puberty, hormones cause a child's sweat glands to increase in size. A strong odor can emit from anywhere on a child's body, especially on the armpits and feet.
Other Causes
Dr. Leia of the Healthy New Age website explains that young children who experience body odor may have a metabolic disorder. Certain disorders may inhibit a child's body from producing the enzymes needed to break down certain chemicals. Some types of foods are also known to encourage body odor in children. Meat, dairy products, wheat, eggs and corn are common examples. In addition, some children are born with a condition called hyperhydrosis, which means their sweat glands operate hyperactively.
Effects
Experts at the KidsHealth website warn that young children may experience additional problems. Other kids may tease a child who has body odor, whatever the cause. This can interfere with a child's emotional and social development. A child may begin to experience school issues, depression, low grades and a disinterest in usually enjoyed activities. Without parental involvement, a child's self-esteem can be affected permanently.
Treatments
For children experiencing puberty, Shari Nethersole, M.D., recommends bathing daily and using underarm deodorant. For other causes, Dr. Leia suggests trying natural methods to eliminate a young child's body odor. Baking soda, baby wipes and diluted apple cider vinegar may be safer to use on young children. If a food is suspected as the cause of the odor, try eliminating one type of food at a time until the culprit is found.
Medical Intervention
When a condition other than puberty is suspected, a child should see a doctor. Dr. Leia says metabolic conditions may need to be safely diagnosed and medically treated. If a child is experiencing puberty earlier than normal, consult a pediatrician. The KidsHealth website says this condition, called precocious puberty, is sometimes caused by brain injury, infections such as meningitis or ovary or thyroid gland problems. Medications may be prescribed to block the production of sex hormones that cause early puberty.
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