Foul body odor, also known as axillary odor, is more common during adolescence. In Western countries, approximately 80% of the population suffers from foul body odor, but they consider it to be a normal physiological phenomenon rather than a medical condition. In our country, although the number of people with foul body odor is not as high as in Western countries, the unpleasant smell is still something people try to avoid. This behavior often makes those with foul body odor feel embarrassed and even isolated. Can foul body odor be contagious?
Is Foul Body Odor Contagious?
Foul body odor has a genetic component. If either parent has foul body odor, there is a 50% chance that their children will also have it. The probability increases if both parents have foul body odor. However, foul body odor is not contagious. This is because the gaps between the cells of the sweat gland muscles are large, allowing large molecules such as lipids to be excreted through the sweat glands. The odor is then produced by bacteria on the skin, rather than being caused by a specific pathogen. Therefore, it is not possible to contract foul body odor from being in close contact with someone who has it.
Treatment for "Contagious" Foul Body Odor
Foul body odor is caused by the interaction between the secretion of unsaturated fatty acids from the sweat glands and certain bacteria. It is hereditary but not contagious. However, in certain circumstances, such as intimate contact between partners or wearing unwashed clothes of someone with foul body odor, a mild form of "contagion" may occur. However, since the sweat glands of the "infected" person are still functioning normally, the symptoms are minimal and can be completely resolved by applying a small amount of medication to the armpits.
Foul Body Odor May Diminish or Disappear with Age
Due to the vigorous secretion of sweat glands during adolescence, foul body odor is more common in young adults. However, as people age and the functions of various organs deteriorate, the secretion of sweat gland fluid also undergoes degeneration, leading to a reduction or disappearance of foul body odor.
Maintaining Hygiene Helps Reduce Foul Body Odor
Warm and humid armpits provide an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, which can exacerbate the problem of foul body odor. Therefore, the first step in reducing foul body odor is to maintain personal hygiene, such as taking regular showers, changing clothes frequently, and keeping the skin dry and clean.
A Mild Diet Can Help Reduce Foul Body Odor
Excessive consumption of spicy and stimulating foods can disrupt the normal function of sweat glands, leading to an aggravation of foul body odor. Therefore, individuals with foul body odor should focus on a mild diet, as it can promote digestion and elimination of waste products and excess moisture from the body.
