"Does excessive underarm odor indicate body odor (B.O. or狐臭)?"

Underarm Odor Causes and Treatments

Underarm odor can be attributed to body odor (also known as bromhidrosis) or other factors such as poor personal hygiene and excessive sweat gland secretion. It is recommended that patients promptly consult a physician to identify the specific cause and receive targeted treatment. Here are some possible explanations and corresponding treatments:

1. Body Odor (Bromhidrosis)

Body odor typically arises from overly active apocrine sweat glands in the armpits, resulting in unpleasant smells accompanied by skin itching or stinging sensations. Surgical interventions like apocrine glandectomy can help alleviate these symptoms.

2. Poor Personal Hygiene

Neglecting personal hygiene, such as not bathing regularly or changing clothes frequently, can lead to excessive sweating in the underarms and potential bacterial infections, causing unpleasant odors. Maintaining good hygiene practices and applying antiperspirants can be effective solutions.

3. Excessive Sweat Gland Secretion

Hot weather or intense physical activity can stimulate increased sweat gland activity, causing excessive sweating in the underarms and subsequent odor. While specific treatment may not be necessary, maintaining cleanliness is crucial.

4. Other Causes

Conditions like folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles) and furuncles (boils) can also contribute to underarm odor. Folliculitis is often caused by Staphylococcus aureus infections, manifesting as red papules centered on hair follicles, accompanied by redness and pain. Furuncles, also caused by Staphylococcus aureus, appear as半球形结节(semispherical nodules) with firm texture, redness, and pain. To manage these conditions, maintaining a healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables while avoiding greasy or spicy foods is advisable.