As if hot flashes and night sweats weren't bothersome enough in and of themselves, changes in body odor that occur as a result of these menopausal symptoms are one of the most odious side effects of menopause. Changes in body odor can lead to embarrassment, dejection, and anxiety in social situations.
Fortunately, once the root cause of these changes in body odor is understood, it is possible to control them and sashay with confidence once again. Keep reading to learn more about changes in body odor, why they happen to women during menopause, and how to treat the problem.
About Changes in Body Odor
Definition of body odor
Body odor is a byproduct of sweat, the body's natural cooling system. Women possess two types of sweat glands.Eccrine Glands |
• Located all over body
• Produce odorless sweat
• Sweat is released onto body's surface
|
Apocrine Glands |
• Produce fatty sweat inside of the gland
• Located near hair follicles
• Sweat is pushed to surface when women feel anxious or stressed
|
In the case of sweat produced by the apocrine glands, which are located near hair follicles on the scalp, underarms, and groin area, the sweat contains fatty compounds. Bacteria feed on this sweat when it is secreted to the skin's surface, and the resulting waste products, fatty acids, ammonia, and chemical reactions form a palpable odor which is unique for every woman.
Changes in body odor and menopause
Numerous typical menopausal symptoms can cause an increase in sweat production, which can lead to changes in body odor. Hot flashes and night sweats in particular have a strong effect, though psychological symptoms such as depression, panic attacks, or anxiety can lead to an increase in the incidence of sweating as well. More sweat leads to changes in body odor.Keep reading to learn more about the causes of the increased sweat production that results in changes in body odor.
Causes of Changes in Body Odor
Hormonal causes
For most mid aged women, hormone fluctuations are the primary cause for changes in body odor. The main player is estrogen, which is responsible for helping regulate the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that controls body temperature.
When estrogen levels drop, as is common during menopause, a false message is sent to the hypothalamus saying that the body is overheated. At this, the hypothalamus springs into action, causing an increase in sweat production and changes in body odor as a final result.
Other causes
In addition, other factors may play a role in the changes in body odor a woman experiences. Diet, stress, certain diseases, and heredity are all potential causes as well. A wardrobe heavy on synthetic fabrics such as polyester or other non-breathable materials will also collect sweat and lead to increased body odors.
Changes in body odor don't have to be permanent for women. Read on to learn about treatment options to regain one's former natural level of body odor.
Treatments for Changes in Body Odor
There are many treatment options available for women to fight their unwelcome changes in body odor.
It is generally recommended that women begin with the least invasive option, which would be lifestyle changes. If changes in body odor are being caused due to stress or poor nutrition, eating a balanced diet rich in magnesium and zinc in particular can be extremely beneficial. Wheat grass acts as a natural deodorant due to its high chlorophyll content. Practicing stress reduction techniques such as yoga or meditation can also help, as can wearing breathable cotton clothing and bathing regularly.
Lifestyle changes can be difficult to implement all at once for a busy woman, however. The most effective approach, as changes in body odor in menopausal women is primarily caused by fluctuating levels of estrogen that leads to an increase in sweat production, is to treat the problem directly at the hormonal source. A variety of natural and alternative remedies exist that are able to address this imbalance. A combination of lifestyle changes and alternative medicine is the smartest and safest way to battle changes in body odor.
If
experiencing other symptoms that may indicate a disease of which
changes in body odor may be a symptom, it is recommended that women seek
the advice of a healthcare professional. Surgical and
pharmaceutical remedies are also available for the treatment of
changes in body odor, but are recommended under very severe
circumstances as side effects are inevitable.Click on the following link to learn specific treatments for changes in body odor, which begin with lifestyle changes, move onto alternative medicines, and finally, if those options don't seem to help, try prescribed medications. The most effective treatments typically combine lifestyle changes and alternative medicine.
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