What is Bromhidrosis?

Bromhidrosis - When Sweat Odor Becomes Unbearable

Bromhidrosis is a condition that affects the apocrine sweat glands. It's a specific type of hyperhidrosis, which means excessive sweating. Normally, our bodies sweat to regulate temperature. So, in hot weather, it's natural to sweat more to cool down. But for people with bromhidrosis, this system goes into overdrive. They sweat way too much, regardless of the temperature. The word "bromhidrosis" comes from Greek words meaning "animal-like stench" and "sweat." This highlights another key part of the condition: not only is there too much sweat, but it also has a strong, unpleasant odor. This odor is especially noticeable in areas with lots of sweat glands, like the armpits, feet, and groin. When sweat is first produced, it's actually odorless. The smell comes from bacteria breaking it down. While a normal shower gets rid of this smell for most people, those with bromhidrosis deal with an exceptionally strong and almost constant odor.

Symptoms of Bromhidrosis:

• Increased sweating
• Strong, sour-smelling sweat
• Abnormal sweat production
• Unpleasant, intense sweat odor
• Constantly damp skin

Bromhidrosis: The Problem of Bad Sweat Odor

There are two types of sweat glands: eccrine and apocrine. Eccrine sweat is thin and odorless. Apocrine sweat, on the other hand, can have a strong smell. This happens because bacteria on the skin break down the sweat, creating byproducts that produce individual odors. Just like excessive sweating, this odor can be a real burden. It's not just the amount of sweat, but also the smell that makes this condition so tough. Bromhidrosis, meaning "smelly sweat," affects every part of life. It really lowers the quality of life for those who have it. Eccrine bromhidrosis usually affects the feet, causing a very strong, unpleasant smell and constant dampness, which can lead to fungal infections and inflammation. It can be caused by metabolic issues, in which case the sweating and odor aren't limited to the feet but affect the whole body. It can also run in families. Apocrine bromhidrosis starts during puberty. This is because the apocrine glands, which cause it, don't become active until then. That's why the symptoms often appear in teenagers. During puberty, hormones affect these glands. Bacteria break down apocrine sweat into fatty acids and amines, which cause the strong smell. Depending on the exact mix, the odor can be described as sour, musty, or rancid.

Psychological Effects of Sweat Odor

People with bromhidrosis also deal with a lot of emotional stress. The strong odor is often mistaken for poor hygiene. They face judgment and are seen as unclean, even though they might shower multiple times a day and use lots of deodorants and perfumes. This leads to social isolation. The apocrine sweat, produced by glands in the armpits and groin that become active during puberty, is the root cause. This sweat is natural and initially odorless, but bacteria quickly break it down into substances like fatty acids and ammonia, causing that musty, fecal, or sour smell. The odor can become such a psychological burden that it leads to a bromhidrosis phobia, similar to hyperhidrosis phobia. People fear they smell bad, imagining a terrible body odor and believing they "stink." This constant anxiety and uncertainty can lead to mental health issues, especially in young people. It can cause compulsive washing, delusions, and an overwhelming fear of odor. People with bromhidrosis often get trapped in a cycle of fear, stress, and worsening symptoms. There's a reason we say you can "smell fear," and the term "nervous sweat" highlights the link between anxiety, sweating, and odor. Stress, even in healthy people, can increase sweating and odor, and this is even more pronounced in bromhidrosis. This can lead to isolation and depression. So, along with medical or surgical treatments, psychological support is crucial. The common belief that strong sweat odor is always due to poor hygiene leads to discrimination. Bromhidrosis isn't well-known, which means not only do family, friends, and coworkers misunderstand, but those affected may also not know where to find help.

Treatment Options for Bromhidrosis

"There's no one-size-fits-all treatment. Diet can play a big role, and using a good antiperspirant to reduce sweat is a good starting point." A balanced diet can help manage odor. Limiting things like coffee, tobacco, and alcohol is a good idea. Spicy foods can also increase sweating and odor. Eating lots of green vegetables and less meat has helped some people. Sage, a natural remedy, can also help in some cases.

1. Reduce sweat with a good antiperspirant: less sweat means fewer bacteria and less odor. 

2. Use specialized deodorants.

Managing Sweat Odor with Hygiene

Specific hygiene practices can help manage bromhidrosis and minimize odor. Shaving underarm hair reduces bacteria. Use antibacterial soaps and washes, but choose gentle ones to avoid irritating the skin's pH balance, as people with bromhidrosis often have sensitive skin from frequent washing.

Using Antiperspirants to Combat Sweat Odor

Use antiperspirants, which reduce sweat and odor by limiting the bacteria that cause it. They're different from deodorants, which just mask the smell. Antiperspirants work at the source. They're usually fragrance-free and meant to reduce sweating. Apply them at night for best results. Different areas of the body need different strengths, so you'll find products for:

• Armpits
• Body
• Feet
• Hands
• Forehead
• Scalp

Choose products that suit your needs in terms of strength, type, and size.

Erstmals publiziert am: 12.05.2011

Aktualisiert: 27.05.2025