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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Distinct Body Odor?

My husband is a clean person and showers regularly but he said he has a distinct odor that smells like boiled chicken to him. No one else in the family smells him. At times he said it is so strong that he can t stand it. Could there be a medical issue?
Wed, 16 Mar 2016
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Thank you for your query
Would you please clarify a few things for me?

1)how old is your husband?
2)has he had any recent respiratory tract infections? Like sinusitis or bronchitis?
3)has he had any head injuries? Or injuries to the nose? Or a stuffy nose (no infection /allergies)?
4) does he smoke? Or have any dental problems (caries, a new filling)?
5)is he on any medication?

Any change in smell, if it lasts more than a few days, should be investigated. A recent infection can cause retention of mucous which can cause a foul smell but can also be sensed by others if close enough to the person.

Head injuries, other changes in the olfactory pathway like a polyp or nerve damage can cause changes in smell which is sensed only by the person affected.

I recommend a consult with an ENT (Ear, nose, throat) specialist to rule out the above possible causes.
Early diagnosis and treatment will prevent further progression.

Hope this helps. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
Wish you both good health
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What Causes Distinct Body Odor?

Thank you for your query Would you please clarify a few things for me? 1)how old is your husband? 2)has he had any recent respiratory tract infections? Like sinusitis or bronchitis? 3)has he had any head injuries? Or injuries to the nose? Or a stuffy nose (no infection /allergies)? 4) does he smoke? Or have any dental problems (caries, a new filling)? 5)is he on any medication? Any change in smell, if it lasts more than a few days, should be investigated. A recent infection can cause retention of mucous which can cause a foul smell but can also be sensed by others if close enough to the person. Head injuries, other changes in the olfactory pathway like a polyp or nerve damage can cause changes in smell which is sensed only by the person affected. I recommend a consult with an ENT (Ear, nose, throat) specialist to rule out the above possible causes. Early diagnosis and treatment will prevent further progression. Hope this helps. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions. Wish you both good health