"How Does Underarm Odor Transition into Body Odor (Foxiness)?"
Transformation from Underarm Odor to Bromhidrosis
The transformation of underarm odor into bromhidrosis (body odor) can stem from non-disease factors such as inadequate personal hygiene and improper diet, as well as disease-related factors including bacterial infection, hyperhidrosis, and folliculitis. It is recommended that patients promptly consult a physician for a diagnosis and targeted treatment.
Non-Disease Factors:
Inadequate Personal Hygiene: If a patient neglects personal hygiene, allowing the underarms to remain in a damp environment for extended periods, it may lead to the development of unpleasant odor. In this case, special treatment is generally not required. Instead, it is advised to bathe frequently, change clothes regularly, and maintain dryness and cleanliness in the underarm area.
Improper Diet: Frequent consumption of spicy or pungent foods like peppers and garlic can cause excessive sweating in the underarms, resulting in odor. Again, specific treatment is typically unnecessary; a shift towards a blander diet, avoiding such spicy and pungent foods, is recommended.
Disease Factors:
Bacterial Infection: Neglect of personal hygiene or frequent wearing of tight-fitting clothing can foster bacterial growth and invasion of the underarm skin, triggering a local inflammatory response manifested as odor. Treatment may involve the application of erythromycin ointment or mupirocin ointment under medical guidance.
Hyperhidrosis: This condition may be genetic or linked to stress. It causes excessive sweating in the armpits, often accompanied by irritation and a burning sensation. Treatment options include medications such as atropine sulfate tablets or propranolol hydrochloride tablets.
Folliculitis: It may arise from Staphylococcus aureus infection or poor hygiene. Symptoms include red, itchy, and painful papules centered on hair follicles. Treatment involves topical application of fusidic acid cream or compound ketoconazole ointment.
Other Diseases: Additionally, the aforementioned symptoms can also be associated with eczema and scabies. Eczema may present with blisters and erosions, while scabies causes papules. It is crucial for patients to seek prompt consultation from a dermatologist for a definitive diagnosis through blood tests or other means.
