What Causes Persistent Foul Underarm Odor?

Posted on Thu, 24 Dec 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 24 Dec 2015 Answered on

Thu, 14 Jan 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello Doctor Narasi, I have suffered from nasty underarm odor ( rt. Only ) for many years. I have finally reached a point where I must seek help. My primary care physician says it must be my diet. May be so, but the onion smell is present even when I avoid onions! Having tried all the common deodorants, white vinegar seems to help for a few hours. What else would you suggest? I am a healthy active female. TIA

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rakhi Tayal (34 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Using Fusidic acid topically can help.

Detailed Answer:
Hello there.
Thanks for trusting us with your health concern.

Body odor is mainly for two reasons-

1. The secretion of skin glands

2. Skin flora fermenting these secretions.

You can use an antibacterial soap which contains Triclosan or tea tree oil.

Regular use of deodorant spray containing aluminium ,zinc salt, zirconium will help.

Use of non sensitizing anti bacterial agents like fusidic acid topically can be helpful.

Using an absorptive powder is advisable.

Cut down on fried fatty snacks/foods and the poultry products.

If still the trouble stays then have a course of Clindamycin/Doxycycline antibiotics for 7 days to take care of any infections in the area.

Please feel free to discuss further. I will be glad to answer the follow up queries that you have.

Wishing you good health.

Regards.
Dr. Rakhi Tayal.
For future query, you can directly approach me through my profile URL http://bit.ly/Dr-Rakhi-Tayal

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee