Body Odour

Body odour is caused by poor hygiene, excessive perspiration and active skin bacteria. Axilla and groin are the main focus.

Precautions Consider uraemia, vaginitis.

Treatment

• Scrub body, esp. groins and axillae, with deodorant soap at least morning and night

• Try an antibacterial surgical scrub

• Keep clothes clean, regular laundry

• Choose suitable clothes—natural fibres (e.g. cotton) not synthetics

• Use an antiperspirant deodorant

• Alternative soap—pine soap

• Diet: avoid garlic, fish, curry, onions, asparagus

• Reduce caffeine (coffee, tea and cola drinks), which stimulates sweat activity

• Consider a sugar-free diet

• Shave or remove axillary hair

• Consider injections of botulinum toxin for excessive perspiration ( 399)