What causes sweat to have a urea-like odor?

Under normal circumstances, sweat with a urea-like odor may be caused by insufficient water intake leading to concentrated sweat, increased metabolism due to intense exercise, urinary tract infections, chronic kidney disease, or diabetic ketoacidosis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Insufficient water intake causing concentrated sweat: When the body is dehydrated, the concentration of metabolic waste such as urea in sweat increases, resulting in a noticeable urea-like odor. Ensure daily water intake of 1500–2000 mL, drink small amounts frequently, avoid waiting until thirsty to rehydrate, and increase fluid intake after exercise.

2. Increased metabolism from intense exercise: High-intensity exercise increases protein breakdown and urea production, intensifying sweat odor. Shower and change clothes promptly after exercising, wear cotton breathable clothing to aid sweat evaporation, and replenish electrolyte drinks during exercise.

3. Urinary tract infection: Bacterial infection causing inflammation in the urinary tract alters urine composition; some components may be excreted through sweat, producing an odor, often accompanied by frequent and urgent urination. Patients should follow medical advice to take medications such as levofloxacin tablets, cefuroxime axetil capsules, or Sanjin tablets, and drink plenty of water to help flush out pathogens.

4. Chronic kidney disease: Reduced kidney excretory function prevents complete elimination of waste products like urea through urine, leading to their secretion via sweat glands and causing sweat to have a urea-like smell. Patients should take prescribed medications such as Ureamic Granules (Yiduqing), Jinshuibao Capsules, or Shenshuaining Capsules, and strictly limit protein intake.

5. Diabetic ketoacidosis: In diabetic patients with poorly controlled blood sugar, fat breakdown produces ketones, which together with urea cause a distinctive odor in sweat, often accompanied by thirst and excessive urination. Patients should follow medical instructions to use insulin injection, metformin sustained-release tablets, gliclazide sustained-release tablets, and other medications to rapidly correct blood glucose levels.

Maintain a regular lifestyle and avoid excessive fatigue. Eat a light, low-salt diet and reduce intake of high-protein foods. Bathe regularly to keep skin clean, use mild bathing products, and minimize the impact of sweat odor on daily life.