I have very bad body odour from my armpits. What should I do?
Strong underarm body odour usually develops when sweat mixes with bacteria on the skin. Hot weather, excessive sweating, tight clothing, poor airflow, stress, hormonal changes, obesity, certain foods, or fungal and bacterial skin infections can make the smell stronger. In some people, the odour becomes noticeable even after bathing because bacteria remain trapped in moist skin folds. Management usually focuses on reducing sweat and bacterial growth. Daily bathing, keeping the underarm area dry, changing sweaty clothes quickly, and using antibacterial soap or antiperspirant deodorants may help control the smell. Loose cotton clothing often reduces sweating better than tight synthetic fabrics. Shaving excess underarm hair may also decrease bacterial buildup. If the odour is severe, doctors sometimes recommend medicated creams, stronger antiperspirants, or treatment for fungal infection if redness or itching is present. Sudden worsening of body odour along with excessive sweating, weight changes, or skin discolouration may need further medical assessment.