Body odor is often considered something to mask with deodorants and fragrances, but being mindful of your natural scents can provide insights into your health. For instance, the foods you consume may affect the scent of your sweat and the amount you perspire (as noted by WebMD). According to Cleveland Clinic, sweat odors can also vary due to hormone levels, medications, mood, genetics, and other influences.
Moreover, certain body odors may indicate significant health issues. “Diseases alter the balance of chemicals in the body,” explained Dr. William Hanson, a professor of anesthesiology and critical care, to Everyday Health. Occasionally, these chemical changes result in odors that differ from your typical scent.
If you detect a new, persistent body odor, it’s wise to consult a doctor. Particularly, a bleach-like odor should prompt an immediate medical evaluation. Here’s what it could indicate if you notice a bleach-like scent.
Sweat that smells like bleach explained
Body odor can sometimes have a strong, sour scent, but it generally shouldn’t resemble the smell of bleach or ammonia. As stated by MedicalNewsToday, such odors could suggest liver or kidney disease. Both the liver and kidneys play key roles in detoxifying the body, and when they malfunction, toxins accumulate, leading to a distinctive odor.
In addition to bleach- or ammonia-like body odor, signs of liver and kidney issues include nausea or vomiting, fatigue, reduced appetite, changes in urine, and swelling in the legs and ankles.
Another reason for sweat smelling like ammonia could be a protein-rich diet. Dr. Lewis Maharam mentioned to Time that individuals following a low-carb, high-protein diet might notice an ammonia scent, which is a byproduct of protein metabolism.
Any unusual body odor signifies a potential imbalance in the body and warrants a doctor’s evaluation. If a serious condition is identified, a healthcare provider can suggest suitable treatment options.
