Introduction

Body odor, including breath and sweat, can provide valuable insights into our overall health condition, according to Dr. Soheil Hussain, a trusted general practitioner in Hertfordshire, England.

Bad Breath and Underlying Health Conditions

While poor oral hygiene is a common cause of bad breath, it can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue. For instance, a breath that smells like acetone (similar to nail polish or a rotten pear) may be a sign of diabetes. Ammonia-like breath could indicate kidney problems, as ammonia is usually excreted in urine. Meanwhile, a smell resembling rotten eggs and garlic may indicate liver dysfunction.

Bad Breath Caused by Bacterial Buildup

Another cause of bad breath is a buildup of bacteria due to trapped food particles. This can be easily treated by maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as daily brushing and flossing.

Body Odor and Sweating

Sweaty underarms and body odor are often caused by a bacterial buildup. Some individuals are more prone to sweating, increasing the risk of fungal infections. Body odor can also be influenced by diet, such as consuming foods like pizza with onions and garlic.

Effects of Stress and Life Stages

Stress and certain life stages, such as puberty and menopause, can lead to noticeable changes in body odor.

Medication and Other Factors

Some medications excreted through body fluids, including sweat, can cause changes in sweat odor. Sinus infections and young children may also experience a foul smell. Tonsil infections, particularly tonsil stones, can contribute to bad breath. Interestingly, perceiving bad breath when none exists, known as phantosmia, may be an early symptom of Parkinson’s disease.

Seeking Medical Attention

While most cases of these symptoms have simple explanations, persistent symptoms should be further evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Source

Express