Research shows that there could be as many as 70 types of bacteria in your belly button alone.
The unpleasant smell does not always mean poor hygiene, but it can be a sign of diseases. Photo: Shutterstock
Soap and water may be all you need to keep the smell at bay, but it can also be a sign of an infection. Here’s what body odor from different parts of the body can communicate.
ear
Earwax is normal. But if it starts to smell or you see discharge, it could be a sign of an infection or a foreign body that has entered the ear. This is especially true for children.
Bad breath
Saliva helps eliminate odor-causing bacteria, so your breath can smell bad when you’re hungry or dehydrated. That’s because chewing signals the body to produce saliva. Not drinking enough water slows down the process. Foods like garlic and onions can also lead to bad breath.
Changes in breathing 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 produce tears and saliva. The smell also depends on the medical problem. For example, gum disease called periodontal disease can give off a metallic smell, while diabetes can make your breath smell fruity.
feces
They are naturally smelly because of the bacteria and specific compounds they contain. But if it smells worse than usual and comes with other symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal cramps or nausea, it could be a sign of an infection. Certain bacteria, viruses and parasites can cause odor. Giardiasis is caused by the giardia parasite, which is usually found in untreated water and food, causing foul-smelling stools.
armpits
Exercise, nervousness, and just plain heat can all lead to sweating. Sweat itself has no smell, but when it mixes with bacteria on the skin, it becomes smelly. An antiperspirant, which controls sweat, usually solves the problem. So does deodorant, which helps with odor. Some over-the-counter products have both effects. Prescription antiperspirants may also be an option.
Urine
It is a mixture of water and waste left over from the kidneys and, being mostly water, has little or no smell. But if you often smell ammonia, this is a sign that you need to drink more water. Certain foods, such as asparagus, can change the smell of urine. So are dietary supplements. Adding water and other non-caffeinated liquids should be enough to get you back on track.
A urinary tract infection, bladder inflammation, and uncontrolled type 2 diabetes can trigger unusual odors. So are metabolic disorders, diabetic ketoacidosis (a complication of diabetes), and gastro-intestinal bladder fistulas.
Pubic area
Some people sweat a lot in the groin area. It is where the thighs and lower abdomen meet. The testicles can rub against the skin and trigger sweating. This can lead to body odor.
Penis
If you’re uncircumcised, dead skin cells and fluids can build up in the foreskin. This buildup becomes a smelly, cheese-like substance called smegma. Washing your penis every day can prevent this from happening. UTIs can also cause odors.
FOOT
Sweating profusely and wearing the same shoes every day can lead to foot odor. Washing them with antibacterial soap and drying them completely can help. You can also sprinkle absorbent powder or use an antiperspirant on your feet. Soaking your feet in vinegar or Epsom salts also helps. It’s also important to give your shoes a chance to dry. Spraying them with a disinfectant kills the bacteria that cause the bad smell.
Vaginal vision
Your vagina has a unique smell. Sex, menstruation or sweating can change them for a short time. Poor hygiene or a tampon not changed on time can change the smell
When a fishy odor occurs that won’t go away, it could be a sign of infection or another condition, especially if it comes with itching, burning, or discharge. Bacterial vaginosis, caused by too many normal bacteria, is the most common reason. Trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI), also causes unpleasant odors. Other diseases, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, usually do not smell. Although less common, cervical or vaginal cancer can also change the smell of the vagina.
Source: WebMd
2024-01-25 09:06:42
#body #odor #shows #health #Click #Sanatate
