Have you recently noticed a change in how you smell?
There are many factors that can be attributed to the change in body odor. It could be due to a recent modification in diet, especially if there is more intake of foods such as eggs, garlic, onions, fried foods, or spiced dishes. It could also be a result of poor hygiene, heredity, or existing fungal infections of the skin.
However, diabetes is often overlooked as a potential source. Here are two ways how diabetes possibly affects you.
- Uncontrolled or undiagnosed diabetes might lead to diabetic ketoacidosis. Without sufficient insulin, the body starts to use fat as a source of fuel, leading to a high level of ketones in the body. As a result, your breath can smell sweet and fruity. Other symptoms include frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, breathlessness, and confusion.
- Diabetes also contributes to halitosis (bad breath) and may cause periodontal disease such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Inflammation occurs in the gums and bone that support your teeth which in turn affects the metabolism and blood glucose levels.
Management
To reduce or prevent unpleasant smells, there are a few general principles to follow.
#1. It is important to maintain a good hygiene.
#2. Shower daily.
#3. Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
#4. Floss daily.
#5. Clean your tongue by brushing or scraping.
#6. Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated.
#7. Schedule an appointment with your dentist.
#8. Quit smoking.
#9. Keep dry by using body powder or anti-perspirant products. By lowering the amount of sweat, it lessens the production of bacteria, therefore decreasing bad odor.
#10. Control your blood glucose by being compliant to medication, diet, and exercise routines as recommended by your healthcare team.
In conclusion, if you are experiencing changes, it is best to notify and schedule a visit with your primary care physician. Such symptoms may be a sign that you are diabetic or have uncontrolled blood glucose.
[expand title=”References“]
Diabetes body odor – what is it? Body Bad Odor. Accessed 5/17/2017.
Morris SY, Pletcher P. What does bad breath have to do with diabetes? Healthline. Accessed 5/17/2017.
7 surprising body odor causes. Healthy Living. Huffington Post. Accessed 5/17/2017.
Innes E. Does your breath smell like nail polish remover? You could have diabetes: doctors reveal what different illnesses smell like. Daily Mail. Accessed 5/17/2017.
[/expand]
