Unusual body odors aren’t always a cause for concern, but they can sometimes offer clues about what is happening inside the body. Bad breath, foot odor and other common smells can often be addressed with basic hygiene, better hydration or an over-the-counter treatment. When an odor is new, persistent or accompanied by other symptoms, however, it might be worth discussing with a healthcare provider.
In some cases, health conditions can cause distinctive smells. The key is knowing what is normal for your body -- and recognizing when something changes.
“You start by identifying whether body odors are physiological,” explained Dr. Jennifer McCaskill, a primary care physician at Henry Ford Health. “For instance, if you’re someone who sweats a lot and your sweat always smells a certain way, that’s normal. But if you notice a change in the smell or you’re sweating more than usual, that’s worth investigating.”
Below are five common body odors that may deserve a closer look, along with steps you can take to address them.
5 common body odors you shouldn’t ignore
1. Bad breath
Occasional bad breath can have a straightforward explanation. Certain medications, dehydration and conditions like sleep apnea can cause dry mouth, which creates an environment where bacteria flourish. Drinking more water may be enough to improve everyday bad breath.
A sweet or fruity smell, however, could point to something more serious.
“If your breath has a fruity scent, we worry about diabetes,” said Dr. McCaskill, who explained that when your body can’t create the energy it needs from sugar, it begins breaking down fatty acids for fuel. “The ketones that build up in the blood as a result of this process can leave a fruity smell on your breath.”
What to do: Contact your doctor if you develop fruity-smelling breath, particularly if it occurs with symptoms like fatigue, unexplained weight loss or blurred vision.
2. Changes in body odor
How much a person sweats -- and how that sweat smells -- varies widely. Puberty, body weight and certain health conditions can all influence body odor. What matters most is whether you notice a significant departure from what is typical for you.
A sudden increase in sweating or an unfamiliar odor could be connected to an underlying health issue. For example, an overactive thyroid and menopause can both lead to excessive sweating during the day or at night.
What to do: If a medical condition isn’t responsible, showering regularly, applying deodorant more often and choosing lightweight, breathable clothing may help. If heavy sweating continues, speak with your doctor about other options.
“Ask your doctor about Botox,” Dr. McCaskill said. “People who have significant issues with sweating may experience a noticeable difference with Botox injections in the armpits.”
3. Foot odor
Feet spend much of the day inside shoes and socks, where heat and perspiration can create ideal conditions for fungus.
“Sweaty shoes and socks are the perfect environment for growing fungus,” Dr. McCaskill said.
If you’re growing foot fungus, you’ll probably notice, she added.
“Athlete’s foot tends to smell worse than regular smelly feet.”
Leaving athlete’s foot untreated can lead to additional problems. The skin between the toes may become damp and softened, potentially increasing the risk of bacterial infections like cellulitis. The fungus can also be transferred to other areas of the body through touch.
What to do: Wash your feet and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. Foot powder or antiperspirant spray may help control moisture, and changing into a clean pair of socks during the day can keep feet drier. At home, remove your socks and allow your feet to air out. Over-the-counter antifungal products like Lotrimin may help treat athlete’s foot.
4. Foul-smelling stool
Bowel movements naturally have an odor, but a particularly strong or unusual smell -- especially when paired with changes in color or consistency -- may warrant medical attention. Digestive conditions like colitis can contribute to foul-smelling stool, as can more serious conditions, including colon cancer.
“If you have strong-smelling dark or black stool, that’s an indication there might be blood in the stool,” Dr. McCaskill said.
Stool that contains noticeable mucus or fat could also suggest that the body is not digesting or absorbing fat normally. In some cases, this may be associated with a digestive condition like irritable bowel syndrome.
What to do: Don’t dismiss persistent changes in the smell or appearance of your stool. Schedule an appointment with your doctor to determine what might be causing them. Seek prompt medical care for black or tarry stools, particularly if you also experience weakness, dizziness, abdominal pain or visible bleeding.
5. Strong-smelling urine
Urine can become darker and more concentrated when you haven’t had enough fluids, often giving it a stronger smell. However, dehydration isn’t the only possible explanation. A pungent or chemical-like odor could be a sign of a urinary tract infection, particularly if it occurs with burning, frequent urination, pelvic discomfort or other urinary symptoms.
What to do: Drink water and monitor whether the odor improves. If it persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, contact your doctor. A urine sample can help determine whether an infection is present. If you have a UTI, your doctor can recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics.
Dr. McCaskill said it’s important to pay attention to odors that are new, noticeably different or persistent -- especially when they occur alongside other physical changes.
“If you notice your body is producing a new or unusual smell, don’t ignore it. Even though it may seem embarrassing, talk to your doctor to figure out the source of the problem.
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