Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS· Last reviewed
Sweat itself is odourless — body odour comes from bacteria acting on sweat. Good hygiene and antiperspirants control most cases, and heavy sweating (hyperhidrosis) has effective treatments.
Wear breathable cotton; change clothes when sweaty
For heavy sweating: strong antiperspirants, and medical options exist
Manage triggers (spicy food, caffeine, stress)
When to see a doctor urgently
Sudden heavy sweating with weight loss, fever, or night sweats (see a doctor)
Sweating with palpitations, tremor or heat intolerance (possible thyroid)
A new, strong or unusual body odour that persists
Antiperspirant for sweat, deodorant for smell. Most body odour is controlled with hygiene and antiperspirants. Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) has effective treatments. New sweating with other symptoms should be checked. MedDroid gives general information, not a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between deodorant and antiperspirant?
A deodorant masks or reduces odour; an antiperspirant reduces the amount of sweat. Many products combine both.
How do I stop excessive sweating?
Strong (aluminium-based) antiperspirants help; for hyperhidrosis, doctors can offer prescription treatments, iontophoresis, botox or other options.
When is sweating a sign of a problem?
Heavy sweating with weight loss, fever, night sweats, palpitations or heat intolerance can signal thyroid or other conditions — get checked.
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.