"Is Underarm Sticky Sweat a Precursor to Body Odor?"

Possible Causes of Sticky Underarm Sweat and Recommended Treatments

Sticky underarm sweat can be a precursor to body odor (bromhidrosis), or it may stem from other causes such as hyperhidrosis, eczema, and folliculitis. It is advisable for patients to promptly consult a physician for a diagnosis and targeted treatment based on the specific underlying cause.

1. Body Odor (Bromhidrosis)

Also known as axillary odor, this is a common skin condition primarily caused by excessive secretion from the apocrine glands in the armpits, leading to an unpleasant odor. Poor personal hygiene can encourage bacterial growth, causing infection, excessive sweating, and stickiness. Treatment options include the use of aluminum chloride hexahydrate solution or methenamine solution under medical guidance.

2. Hyperhidrosis

Prolonged exposure to hot environments or excessive mental stress can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, triggering hyperhidrosis. Increased local sweating can result in sticky underarm sweat. Treatment may involve taking medications like oryzanol tablets or vitamin B1 tablets as prescribed by a doctor.

3. Eczema

Living in damp environments or wearing tight clothing can induce eczema. Skin irritation can lead to excessive underarm sweating accompanied by itching. Treatment options include applying calamine lotion or mometasone furoate cream as directed by a physician.

4. Folliculitis

Poor personal hygiene or scratching the affected area can cause folliculitis. Inflammation of the skin can result in redness, pain, and excessive sweating. Treatment may involve applying fusidic acid cream or compound ketoconazole ointment as prescribed.

Apart from the above, sticky underarm sweat can also be related to furuncles. It is recommended that patients maintain good hygiene by bathing regularly, changing clothes frequently, and consuming a primarily bland diet while avoiding spicy and irritating foods.