Andy Montoya
Eczema is a skin condition that can sometimes emit a distinct odour, which some have likened to the smell of cheese. This smell can be caused by various factors, including infections, treatments, and diet. Infections are common with eczema, especially in children, as open wounds provide an entry point for germs and bacteria. Topical treatments, such as steroids and immunosuppressants, can also cause an increase in body acidity, leading to a stronger odour. Additionally, certain dietary choices, such as consuming cheese, can potentially trigger or worsen eczema symptoms, including the associated odour.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Smell | Like cheese, rotting meat, sweaty feet, or metallic |
| Cause | Infections, treatments, diet, or yeast |
| Treatment | Antibiotics, raw apple cider vinegar, or bleach baths |
| Prevention | Avoid scratching, use moisturizers, and avoid irritants like hairspray and spray deodorant |
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What You'll Learn
Eczema treatments and diet
When eczema becomes infected, it can sometimes give off a distinct and unpleasant odor. This is often described as a 'cheesy' smell, which can be quite distressing for the person affected. This odor is caused by bacteria breaking down skin cells and sweating, which is more common in those with eczema due to the skin's impaired barrier function. It is important to address this issue, as it can indicate a more serious infection that requires medical attention.
Treating eczema often involves a multifaceted approach, including both medical treatments and lifestyle changes such as dietary adjustments. While dietary changes may not cure eczema, they can help manage and reduce symptoms, especially in those with food sensitivities or allergies. Working with a healthcare professional or dietician is advised to ensure any dietary changes are safe and effective.
One dietary approach is to focus on anti-inflammatory foods, as eczema is an inflammatory condition. This involves eating more omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish like salmon and mackerel, as well as flaxseeds and walnuts. Increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables, especially those rich in antioxidants like berries, can also help reduce inflammation. Probiotic-rich foods, such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi, are also beneficial, as they support gut health and reduce inflammation.
Some people with eczema may benefit from an elimination diet, where common allergens like dairy, eggs, gluten, soy, and nuts are removed from the diet for a period, and then slowly reintroduced to identify any triggers. Keeping a food diary can help identify any patterns between diet and eczema flare-ups. It is important to ensure any dietary changes provide adequate nutrition, especially in children, and a dietician can advise on this.
In addition to diet, staying well-hydrated and managing stress are important. Moisturizing the skin regularly and avoiding harsh, drying soaps can also help. Medical treatments for eczema include topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors, which reduce inflammation and improve the skin's barrier function. Antihistamines can help with itching, and in more severe cases, immunosuppressant medications or biologics may be prescribed.
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Topical steroids and antihistamines
Antihistamines, which are often sold as harmless "allergy and hay fever medications", can also cause the body to create more acid and sweat, and affect the liver, putting it into detoxification, which can all lead to a bad smell.
If you are using topical steroids, you may want to check this list to confirm. During withdrawal from topical steroids, your skin can smell worse before it gets better, and the odour can linger for a while after you stop using the cream.
If you are not sure if you are taking an antihistamine, these are usually sold in the form of syrups and tablets and are taken orally.
It is important to note that not everyone who suffers from eczema will notice the smell, and it is usually only detectable by people familiar with the unique odour.
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Infections and crust formation
Eczema is susceptible to bacterial, fungal, or viral infections. The very dry skin associated with eczema has cracks that allow bacteria, viruses, and other germs to enter the body. Staphylococcus aureus, or "staph," is a common bacterial infection that can cause impetigo, which thrives on skin affected by eczema. Infection causes inflamed blisters that pop, ooze, and form honey-colored or yellowish-orange crusts. Staph infections are treated with antibiotics, either topically using antiseptic creams or orally with tablets or a liquid suspension.
The bacterium Staphylococcus aureus may cause a secondary infection of impetigo and possibly contribute to the symptoms of eczema. The herpes simplex virus, which causes cold sores, can also spread over wide areas and is another potential source of infection. Warts are small, raised lumps caused by viral infections that often clear up on their own but can take up to 12 months.
Infections are more likely to occur in babies and small children because their wounds are constantly open, allowing germs and substances to enter. Scratching can also introduce germs from the hands and under the fingernails into the wound. If the eczema is oozing, weeping, or has yellowish crusts, it is likely that an infection is present, and a doctor should be consulted to obtain antibiotics.
Topical steroids and immunosuppressants, as well as antihistamine medications, can cause eczema to smell bad. These medications can increase acid levels in the body, leading to a stronger odour. Topical steroids can also cause hormonal changes and delayed wound healing, which can worsen the smell.
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Natural remedies
Eczema is a skin condition that can cause a lot of discomfort and can sometimes be accompanied by an unpleasant smell. The smell of eczema can vary from person to person and is often described as faintly resembling "rotting meat or cheese", or "sweaty feet". This smell is usually a sign of infection, and it is recommended to see a doctor to be prescribed antibiotics to treat the infection.
There are several natural remedies that can help manage eczema and its symptoms, including the unpleasant odour. Here are some suggestions:
- Colloidal Oatmeal: Oatmeal is known for its soothing and softening properties for inflamed skin. It is available in cream or powder form and can be applied directly to the skin.
- Coconut Oil: The National Eczema Association recommends coconut oil as a natural moisturiser due to its antibacterial properties, which can help reduce staph bacteria on the skin and prevent infection. Choose virgin or cold-pressed coconut oil that is processed without chemicals.
- Sunflower Oil: Sunflower oil can be applied directly to the skin, preferably after bathing when the skin is still damp. It helps to lock in moisture and keep bacteria out.
- Witch Hazel: Witch hazel is an astringent made from the bark and leaves of the witch hazel shrub. It is often used to calm inflamed skin, dry up oozing areas, and relieve itching.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera has antibacterial and antioxidant properties, which can help to treat wounds and dryness associated with eczema.
- Honey: Many people find that applying honey to the skin can help alleviate symptoms of eczema.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D is known to improve the immune system and skin barrier function, so people with a vitamin D deficiency may be more prone to eczema. Taking a vitamin D supplement may help improve symptoms.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Diluted raw apple cider vinegar can be applied to the affected areas or added to a bath to help soothe and heal the skin.
- Dietary Changes: Food allergies are a common trigger of eczema, especially in children. Eliminating common allergenic foods, such as wheatgrass, green powders, tomatoes, pineapple, oranges, and broccoli, may help improve symptoms.
- Avoiding Triggers: Perfumed soaps, detergents, and anti-itch products can irritate eczema. Choose fragrance-free, basic moisturisers, and wash with lukewarm water instead of soap.
- Protecting the Skin: Keeping fingernails short and choosing clothing that covers itchy areas can help prevent scratching and protect the skin from infection.
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Triggers and prevention
Eczema can sometimes smell like cheese due to an infection. Infections are common with eczema, especially in babies and small children, as open wounds are susceptible to germs and other substances. Scratching can also introduce germs from your hands and under your fingernails into the wound, impeding the healing process. If the wound is oozing, weeping, or has yellowish crusts, it is likely infected and requires immediate medical attention.
To prevent eczema flare-ups and infections, it is essential to avoid scratching. This can be challenging, but it is crucial to avoid opening wounds and releasing odour, dead skin cells, and germs. Try using a warm washcloth in the bath to gently exfoliate and lift off crusts and dead skin cells, followed by moisturising with a fragrance-free emollient cream to seal in the skin's natural oils and nutrients.
Lukewarm or cold showers are preferable to hot showers, as high temperatures can aggravate eczema. Avoid ordinary soap, as its ingredients may irritate the skin. Instead, wash your body with warm water alone or use a basic, fragrance-free moisturiser. Bath oils can also help moisturise the skin during bathing. When drying off, gently pat your skin instead of rubbing it with a towel.
Certain medications, such as topical steroids, topical immunosuppressants, and antihistamines, can contribute to the unique smell associated with eczema. These medications can increase acid levels in the body, leading to a more pronounced odour. Topical steroids can also cause hormonal changes and delay wound healing, potentially worsening the smell.
Diet can also influence the odour associated with eczema. Some people with eczema find that consuming certain foods, such as cheese, triggers or worsens their condition. However, it is important to note that dietary triggers can vary from person to person, and not all individuals with eczema will experience the same triggers. It is advisable to consult a doctor or dermatologist to identify potential dietary triggers and develop a personalised plan to manage your eczema effectively.
Other potential triggers to consider include hairspray, spray deodorant, and shampoo. These products can come into contact with affected areas of the skin and exacerbate eczema. It may be helpful to switch to alternative products or application methods, such as roll-on deodorants, to minimise potential irritation.
In summary, preventing the smell associated with eczema involves managing infections, avoiding scratching, maintaining a gentle skincare routine, and identifying and avoiding potential triggers, including certain medications and dietary factors. It is always advisable to seek medical advice for personalised guidance and treatment options.
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Frequently asked questions
If your eczema smells like cheese, it may be infected. This is more likely if the wound is oozing, weeping, or has yellowish crusts. See a doctor immediately to be prescribed antibiotics to treat the infection.
The smell could be caused by your eczema treatment, such as topical steroids, topical immunosuppressants, and antihistamine medications. It could also be caused by your diet.
To prevent the smell, you can try soaking the affected area in a bath with raw apple cider vinegar, diluted with water. You can also try antifungal treatments, such as Nizoral or Head and Shoulders Intensive Treatment.
Addressing the smell of your eczema is important because it is often caused by an infection. By treating the infection, you can improve your health and reduce the risk of further complications.
