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Bromhidrosis

Bromhidrosis (also known as bromhidrosis ) describes a strong-smelling sweat secretion that is usually caused by the decomposition of sweat by bacteria on the skin. The word "bromhidrosis" is derived from the Greek ("bromos" for "stench" and "hidros" for "sweat").

Causes and development

1. Interaction of sweat and bacteria:
   • Sweat itself is initially odorless.
   • Odors arise when sweat (especially from apocrine sweat glands) is decomposed by bacteria (e.g. corynebacteria) on the surface of the skin. This produces odor-intensive decomposition products.
2. Body regions:
   • The armpits, soles of the feet, genital area or other areas of the body with many sweat glands are particularly affected.
3. Favoring factors:
   • Excessive sweating(hyperhidrosis): More sweat provides bacteria with more "food" and moisture.
   • Poor hygiene: Inadequate personal hygiene promotes bacterial growth.
   • Certain diseases or metabolic disorders (e.g. diabetes, obesity): Can influence body odor.
   • Diet (spicy foods, garlic, onions) and certain medications can also intensify the smell of sweat.

Differentiation: Apocrine and eccrine bromhidrosis

• Apocrine bromhidrosis:
  • Affects mainly armpits, genital area, areola.
  • Sweat is richer in protein and fat and is easily decomposed by bacteria, which causes the intense odor.
• Eccrine bromhidrosis:
  • Affects mainly the soles of the feet, palms and forehead.
  • Here the sweat is thinner, but certain substances (e.g. urea, lactic acid) can promote the odor when they are decomposed by bacteria.

Treatment and prevention

1. Hygiene measures:
   • Regular showering with mild, antibacterial washing substances.
   • Daily change of socks and clothing; preferably breathable fabrics.
2. Antiperspirants/deodorants:
   • Antiperspirants reduce sweat production, e.g. through aluminum salts.
   • Deodorants primarily reduce odors by inhibiting or masking bacteria.
3. Treatment of heavy perspiration:
   • For hyperhidrosis: use of Botox injections, iontophoresis or - in rare cases - surgical procedures (e.g. sweat gland suction).
4. Diet & lifestyle:
   • Pay attention to a balanced diet; reduce strong-smelling foods.
   • Avoid obesity and nicotine consumption.
5. Medication:
   • In special cases or if infections (e.g. with corynebacteria or fungi) are present, topical or systemic medication may be necessary.

Conclusion

Bromhidrosis is usually harmless, but can be unpleasant and socially stressful for those affected. Consistent hygiene, suitable care products and - if necessary - medical measures can often effectively reduce or eliminate the excessive odor. In the case of persistent or severe problems, a medical examination is recommended in order to identify and treat possible underlying causes (e.g. hyperhidrosis).