Published Apr 23, 2026 | 7:00 AM ⚊ Updated Apr 23, 2026 | 7:00 AM
If body odour is persistent, unusual, or paired with other symptoms, it is worth getting it checked.
Synopsis: Body odour is not always about sweat or hygiene, and persistent or unusual smells may have other causes. Doctors say infections, excessive sweating, and conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease can change how the body smells, while hormones and metabolism can also affect it.
Many factors can cause body odour: heat, a long day at work, or poor hygiene. But when it is persistent, unusually strong, or different, there may be more behind it. In some cases, skin conditions, other health issues, or hormonal changes may cause it.
At its simplest, body odour starts on the skin. Sweat is odourless, but when it interacts with bacteria, it produces the smell we notice. Infections or excessive sweating can intensify it.
“While sweat itself is odourless, bacteria on the skin break it down and create smell,” said Dr. Pooja Kanumuru, dermatologist, Apollo Clinic, Indiranagar, Bangalore.
“From a dermatological standpoint, persistent or unusual odour isn’t always about hygiene. Bacterial and fungal infections, excessive sweating (bromhidrosis), and systemic conditions like diabetes, liver, or kidney disease can all alter how the body smells.”
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A key distinction is that medically linked odour does not improve with routine hygiene. When it persists, that makes evaluation important. The smell may also be stronger or different in character.
“These conditions include bromhidrosis, infections, diabetes, liver or kidney disease,” added Dr. Pooja Kanumuru.
Not all body odour starts on the skin. Internal bodily functions—especially hormones and metabolism—can change how sweat is produced and how the body breaks down certain compounds, which leads to distinct smells.
“There are multiple causes like metabolic problems, hormonal problems or endocrine problems,” said Dr. Y. D. Meherprasad, Senior Consultant, Endocrinology & Preventive Healthcare at MGM Healthcare Malar, Chennai, speaking to South First.
From an endocrine perspective, these odours are often clinical indicators rather than isolated symptoms. A fruity or sweet smell may be linked to diabetes, while an ammonia-like odour can point to kidney-related issues. These smells are usually distinct and persistent compared to normal sweat, he said.
“Sometimes in endocrine problems, it gives a sweet odour or ammonia-like odour,” added Dr. Y. D. Meherprasad.
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If body odour is persistent, unusual, or paired with other symptoms, it is worth getting it checked. Early evaluation can show whether it is a skin issue, an infection, or an underlying metabolic or hormonal condition, and guide treatment.
