Patrick Oconnell
Body odour is a common issue, often caused by microbes on the skin metabolising compounds in sweat. While the biochemistry behind body odour is not fully understood, it is known that certain bacteria, such as Staphylococcus epidermis, can break down sweat to produce compounds like isovaleric acid, which has a cheesy smell. Body odour can also be influenced by factors such as sex, genetics, age, and diet. In some cases, a strong cheese-like odour may be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis. Additionally, smell disorders or dysfunctions, which can be caused by viruses or health issues like chronic sinusitis, may also contribute to the perception of phantom or altered smells.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Body Odor | Caused by microbes, diet, medication, supplements, hormones, genetics, age, sex, or underlying disease |
| Bromhidrosis | A strong, persistent B.O. that doesn't improve with regular hygiene practices |
| Apocrine Sweat | Thicker and contains proteins and lipids which, when broken down by bacteria, create a strong odor |
| Bacterial Vaginosis | Can cause a strong cheese-like odor |
| Candida Overgrowth | Can cause a strong cheese-like odor |
| Phantom Smells | Can be a symptom of Covid infection or other viruses, health issues, or chronic sinusitis |
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What You'll Learn
Body odour is caused by microbes on the skin
Body odour, or BO, is an issue that affects most people at some point in their lives. While sweat itself is almost entirely odourless, body odour is primarily caused by microbes on the skin that metabolize sweat and produce foul-smelling byproducts.
There are three types of sweat glands in the human body: eccrine, apocrine, and sebaceous. Eccrine sweat glands are found all over the body and secrete sweat directly onto the surface of the skin to help regulate body temperature. This type of sweat is mostly water and salt and does not have a strong smell. On the other hand, apocrine sweat glands, which are responsible for producing body odour, are located in hairy regions like the armpits, genitals, and scalp. This type of sweat is thicker and contains proteins and lipids, which can be broken down by bacteria on the skin to create a strong, persistent odour.
The armpits, in particular, provide a warm and moist environment where microbes can thrive, making them a hotspot for bacterial growth and body odour. The type of bacteria that colonize the skin and the way they interact with sweat also play a significant role in body odour. For example, male armpits tend to have higher populations of Corynebacterium jeikeium, resulting in a rancid or cheese-like smell, while female armpits have more Staphylococcus haemolyticus, leading to a fruity or onion-like odour.
In addition to bacterial activity, body odour can be influenced by various factors such as diet, sex, health, medication, and genetics. For instance, certain foods and medications can impact body odour, and underlying medical conditions can sometimes be diagnosed based on specific odours emitted from the skin. While deodorants and antiperspirants can help mask body odour, they do not address the root cause, which is the presence of odour-causing microbes on the skin.
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The type of odour depends on individual body chemistry
Body odour is primarily caused by the activation of apocrine sweat glands during puberty. These glands secrete an oily fluid made up of proteins, lipids, and steroids. While apocrine sweat is odourless on its own, when it is broken down by bacteria on the skin, it can create a strong, persistent smell. The type of odour depends on individual body chemistry, including factors such as diet, hygiene, and the bacteria present on the skin. For example, a diet high in sugar can lead to a candida overgrowth in the digestive system, which can cause a strong cheese-like body odour. Additionally, certain medications, supplements, and hormonal changes can also influence body odour.
The intensity and character of body odour can vary depending on individual factors. For instance, men generally have larger sweat glands and produce more sweat, leading to a higher concentration of bacteria and more intense odours. Similarly, age can play a role, with the "nursing home smell" associated with elderly individuals resulting from the presence of an unsaturated aldehyde called 2-nonenal.
Furthermore, the specific bacteria present on the skin can determine the type of odour produced. Common skin bacteria that contribute to body odour include members of the Corynebacterium, Staphylococcus, and Cutibacterium genera. These bacteria produce volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including volatile fatty acids and thioalcohols, which give rise to distinct odours. For example, 3-methyl-2-hexenoic acid (3M2H), produced by some Corynebacterium species, has a "goat-like" odour, while 3-hydroxy-3-methylhexanoic acid (HMHA) has a "cumin-like" smell.
While body odour is typically attributed to the breakdown of sweat by bacteria, it is important to note that other factors, such as underlying health conditions, can also contribute to unusual or persistent odours. For example, strong cheese-like odours in the vaginal region accompanied by white chunky discharge may indicate a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis (BV). Similarly, phantom smells, such as burning rubber or smoke, can be a symptom of viral infections like COVID-19 or other health issues like chronic sinusitis. Therefore, if you are experiencing unusual or persistent body odours, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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Candida overgrowth in the digestive system can cause a cheese-like smell
Candida, a type of yeast, is typically found in small amounts in the mouth, gut, and vagina. While it is usually harmless, an overgrowth of Candida can lead to an infection called candidiasis. This infection can cause white, yellow, or brown mucus in the stool, as well as loose stools, fatigue, and digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, nausea, gas, cramps, and bloating. Candida overgrowth in the gut can also lead to flatulence and cravings for sweets.
One of the most common places for candidiasis to occur is in the vagina, where it is commonly called a yeast infection. Vaginal yeast infections can cause itching, abnormal discharge, and pain during sex or while urinating. If you are experiencing a strong cheese-like odor and abnormal discharge, this could be indicative of a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis (BV).
It is important to note that Candida overgrowth may be influenced by certain medications, underlying health conditions, and lifestyle factors. For example, the use of antibiotics can kill good bacteria, disrupting the balance of microbes in the body and leading to Candida overgrowth. Additionally, people with health conditions that weaken the immune system, such as HIV, AIDS, or certain cancers, may be more susceptible to Candida overgrowth.
If you suspect you have a Candida overgrowth or yeast infection, it is recommended to consult a doctor or gynecologist for proper diagnosis and treatment. They may take a stool sample or perform other tests to determine the presence of Candida overgrowth and identify the underlying cause.
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Bacterial vaginosis can cause a strong cheese-like odour
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection that can cause a strong, unpleasant odour. It is characterised by a "fishy" smell, which may be especially strong after sex. The odour is produced by an overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria in the vagina, specifically high levels of Gardnerella vaginalisbacteria. This type of bacteria thrives in a moist environment, which is why it is recommended to wear cotton underwear, as it helps wick away moisture.
In addition to the fishy odour, other symptoms of BV may include a grayish-white vaginal discharge, burning, and itching. It is important to note that vaginal discharge can vary in colour and viscosity depending on diet, menstrual cycle, and other factors. However, if you are experiencing a strong cheese-like odour, it may be indicative of BV or another vaginal infection.
BV is typically diagnosed through a pelvic exam, vaginal discharge sample, and tests such as the whiff test, where a provider smells the vaginal discharge for a fish-like odour. Treatment for BV involves antibiotics, which can be prescribed by a healthcare provider.
While BV is a common cause of vaginal odour, there are other potential causes to consider. For example, diet can play a significant role in body odour, including that of the vagina. Foods with strong odours, such as garlic or fish, can influence vaginal odour. Additionally, hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can also affect vaginal pH levels, resulting in temporary odour changes.
Practising good hygiene habits, such as wearing breathable clothing, maintaining proper hydration, and using mild, unscented soap for external cleansing, can help maintain vaginal health and reduce the risk of infections that can cause unpleasant odours.
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Loss of smell can be caused by Covid infection
A strong cheese-like odour can be indicative of a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis. This type of smell is not considered normal and can be accompanied by white chunky discharge. While vaginas have a natural faint smell, and discharge can vary in colour and viscosity depending on diet or the menstrual cycle, a strong cheese-like odour can indicate a medical issue.
If you are experiencing a strong cheese-like body odour, this could be a sign of apocrine bromhidrosis, a condition where apocrine sweat mixes with skin bacteria, creating a strong, persistent odour. This type of sweat is thicker than eccrine sweat and contains proteins and lipids. However, it is important to note that bromhidrosis is usually characterised by a persistent odour that does not improve with regular hygiene practices.
Now, onto your other question:
Loss of smell can be caused by a Covid infection, and this was a common symptom during the pandemic. With Covid-19, loss of smell is often one of the first signs of infection and usually occurs in those with a mild form of the virus. This is different from other viral infections, where smell loss usually occurs after other symptoms, such as congestion and a runny nose, have passed.
Covid-19 affects the supporting cells of the olfactory sensory neurons, which regenerate faster than the neurons themselves, which is why smell recovery in Covid patients usually takes about four weeks. In contrast, recovery from smell loss caused by other viruses can take months or even years.
It is important to note that there are many other causes of loss of smell, including allergies, nasal polyps, medications, nasal or sinus inflammation, other viral infections, neurodegenerative diseases, vitamin deficiencies, and in rare cases, tumours.
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Frequently asked questions
Body odour is a common issue that can be caused by microbes on the skin metabolising certain compounds in sweat. The smell of body odour can vary depending on factors like diet, hygiene, and the bacteria present on the skin. If you are experiencing a strong cheese-like odour, it could be due to an overgrowth of candida in your digestive system. Eliminating sugars from your diet may help reduce this type of yeast smell.
Body odour can be influenced by various factors such as sex, genetics, age, and diet. Medications, supplements, and hormonal changes can also play a role. Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection, can cause unusual odours.
Maintaining good hygiene practices, such as showering regularly and wearing breathable fabrics, can help manage body odour. Antiperspirants and deodorants are commonly used to reduce or prevent odour. Deodorants contain chemicals that kill odour-causing bacteria, while antiperspirants reduce sweat production by clogging sweat glands.
If you are concerned about persistent or unusual body odour, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide personalised advice and rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the odour.
Yes, smell disorders, including loss of smell or the perception of phantom smells, have been associated with COVID infection. If you notice significant changes in your sense of smell or the presence of unusual odours, it is advisable to seek medical advice.
