5 Body Odours That Could Mean You Have A Disease, Never Ignore
Whether you’ve just completed a gruelling workout or chowed down on some onion in your burger or salad, chances are at some point, you’ve been that guy who stunk up the room. In most cases, a simple shower, swipe of deodorant, or line of minty-fresh toothpaste could remedy the situation. But in other cases, it’s not so simple.
That’s because your body odour can actually speak volumes about your health. In fact, some diseases can actually produce a unique, distinguished odour, according to a recent Swedish study.
So which funky fumes should you take note of? Here are 5 common body odours that might signal a serious problem—and what you should do if the stench arises.
1. Bad Breath
Waking up with smelly breath is normal. Your body puts out way less saliva, or spit, when you’re asleep. Saliva helps get rid of bacteria that cause odors, so your breath might also smell bad when you’re hungry or dehydrated. That’s because chewing signals the body to make saliva. Not drinking enough water slows down the process. Foods like garlic and onion can lead to bad breath, too.
Bad Breath: A Sign of Something Serious
Changes in your breath can be a symptom of several health conditions. These include sinus infections, gum disease, and acid reflux. Sjogren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disease, attacks the glands that make tears and saliva. The odor also depends on the medical problem. For example, gum disease may give off a metallic scent, while diabetes can make your breath smell fruity.
2. Fruity breath is a symptom of diabetes
Here’s what’s happening: Your body can’t create the energy it needs to function properly, so it begins to break down fatty acids for fuel. This creates a build-up of acidic chemicals called ketones in your blood. One of the main acids—acetone (the same component found in nail polish remover)—can leave a fruity smell on your breath, Dr. Gabbay says. You might not notice it until someone else mentions it, but doctors can smell it on you as soon as you walk into a room.
The effects of DKA can be serious—even deadly. It can make you vomit and urinate frequently, causing your body to lose fluids at a dangerous rate, he says.
3. Stinky feet is a symptom of athlete’s foot
Can’t seem to fight funky sneakers? A fungal infection may be to blame. If you notice dry, scaly skin around your toes, redness, and blisters, you may have athlete’s foot.
Lots of sweat and wearing the same shoes every day can lead to stinky feet. Washing them with antibacterial soap and fully drying can help. You can also sprinkle absorbent powder or use an antiperspirant on your feet. Foot soaks with vinegar or Epsom salts help, too. It’s also important to give your shoes a chance to dry out. Spraying them with a disinfectant kills the bacteria that cause odor.
4. Poop
Poop is naturally smelly because of bacteria and compounds. But if it smells worse than usual and comes with other symptoms like diarrhea, belly cramps, or nausea, it could be a sign of an infection. Certain bacteria, viruses, and parasites can lead to stomach bugs. Giardiasis is a type of diarrhea that triggers unusually bad-smelling poop. The giardia parasite, typically found in untreated water and food, causes it.
5. Strong-smelling urine is a symptom of a urinary tract infection
It’s a mix of water and leftover waste from your kidneys. Pee that’s mostly water has little to no odor. But if you often smell ammonia, that’s a sign you need to drink more water. Certain foods, like asparagus, can change the smell of your pee. So can supplements. Adding water and other caffeine-free fluids should be enough to get you back on track.
Smelly Pee: When to Be Concerned
You may need to call your doctor if an odd odor sticks around. A urinary tract infection (UTI), bladder inflammation, and uncontrolled type 2 diabetes can trigger unusual smells. So can metabolic disorders, diabetic ketoacidosis (a complication of diabetes), and gastrointestinal-bladder fistulas.
Source:style-care.blogspot.com, webmd.com, menshealth.com
