What are the causes of axillary odor?
Disease description:
Every time I sweat, I can smell a very pungent odor coming from my armpits. My mom says this is axillary odor (bromhidrosis). What causes axillary odor?
The main causes of axillary odor include:
1. Genetic factors: Axillary odor has a hereditary tendency, and individuals with a family history of axillary odor have a higher probability of developing it. Genetic factors leading to abnormal secretory function of the apocrine glands are one of the important causes of axillary odor.
2. Excessive secretion of apocrine glands: The apocrine glands under the armpit skin secrete excessive sweat, which is decomposed by bacteria to produce a distinctive odor, resulting in axillary odor.
3. Poor lifestyle habits: Poor personal hygiene habits, such as infrequent bathing and changing clothes, and wearing tight, non-breathable clothing such as tight shirts and jeans, can increase the risk of axillary odor.
4. Dietary factors: Long-term consumption of spicy, greasy, or irritating foods may stimulate the apocrine glands to secrete more sweat, thereby worsening axillary odor symptoms.
5. Enlarged hair follicles: Frequent plucking or shaving of underarm hair, as well as the use of topical medications that stimulate hair follicle proliferation and enlargement, can also increase the likelihood of developing axillary odor.