Sniffing out your health concerns — how scents can signal underlying medical conditions

Here are some signs that your body odour could point to a bigger health problem

While body odour is a normal aspect of human physiology, certain scents can signal underlying medical conditions. Picture: iStock.

Specific smells, such as fruity or fishy odours, can be particularly suggestive of certain health conditions.

Sweating from intense exercise or extreme heat often produces a strong smell, but when does this odour signal something more serious?

In some cases, a sudden or unusual change in body odour, particularly when paired with other symptoms, may point to an underlying health condition.

Here’s some GP-approved guidance on warning signs to watch for and advice on when it’s time to consult a healthcare professional.

What is body odour?

“Body odour, or BO as we might casually call it, arises from bacteria breaking down sweat, leading to those distinct aromas,” explains GP Anita Raja.

GP Naveed Asif, agrees and adds: “Body odour is a natural phenomenon that many people experience, yet it often raises questions and concerns regarding its implications for health.

“While body odour is a normal aspect of human physiology, certain scents can signal underlying medical conditions.”

What types of body odours should we be concerned about?

“In my years as a GP, I’ve encountered a varied bouquet of scents, each telling its own story,” says Raja.

“Patients often walk in questioning certain odours — perhaps someone with liver issues who might have noticed a sickly-sweet note, or an individual suffering from a lung infection whose breath had an unappealing whiff.

“In addition, a sweet, fruity odour might suggest diabetes, while a sour scent could be related to metabolic disorders or even excessive perspiration.”

Fishy or mouldy odours might also be a cause for concern.

“A strong fishy scent can be associated with trimethylaminuria, a genetic condition that affects the breakdown of specific compounds,” adds Asif.

“It may also indicate a urinary tract infection or other infections.

“Whereas, a mouldy or musty odour could suggest a fungal infection or other medical concerns.

“In addition, a smell resembling ammonia may indicate kidney issues, as the body struggles to filter excess urea effectively.”

What other symptoms could indicate a bigger health issue?

If you experience symptoms such as losing weight, persistent tiredness or a fever alongside changes in body odour, it’s advisable to seek medical attention.

“Losing weight without any changes to your diet or exercise routine may point to a metabolism or hormone imbalance or another serious condition, like cancer,” highlights Asif. “Persistent tiredness that does not improve with rest may also signal underlying health issues.

“Furthermore, rashes, irritation, or changes in skin texture might suggest an infection or other dermatological condition, and fever or chills could suggest an infection.”

In addition, it’s important to flag to your doctor any changes in urination and bowel habits.

“Any alterations in urination or bowel habits may indicate kidney or digestive problems,” explains Asif.

When is it time to seek advice from a medical professional?

“Monitoring the change for a few days is reasonable, especially if there are no other symptoms present,” says Asif. “However, if the odour persists, intensifies, or is accompanied by concerning signs, consulting a healthcare provider is the best course of action.”

What tests or evaluations might be needed?

If an underlying health issue is suspected behind a body odour, several tests might be conducted, depending on accompanying symptoms and the suspected cause.

“Blood tests can assess diabetes, kidney function, liver health, and metabolic disorders and a urine test can help identify infections or kidney issues,” notes Asif. “Whereas, a skin biopsy or scraping may be conducted to assess for infections, cancer or an autoimmune condition (where the body produces antibodies against itself and can manifest with skin changes).

“Evaluating a patient’s diet may also reveal if certain foods are contributing to the change in body odour.”