Should you be sweating it?

HOW TO TELL IF B.O. SIGNALS A MORE SERIOUS HEALTH ISSUE

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SWEATING from intense exercise or extreme heat often produces a strong smell - but when does this odour signal something more serious?

In some cases, a sudden or unusual change in body odour - particularly when paired with other symptoms - may point to an underlying health condition.

Here, GPs give their guidance on warning signs to watch for and advice on when it's time to consult a healthcare professional.

What is body odour?

"Body odour, or BO as we casually call it, arises from bacteria breaking down sweat, leading to those distinct aromas," explains Dr Anita Raja, a Birmingham-based GP.

Dr Naveed Asif, GP at The London General Practice adds: "It is a natural phenomenon many people experience, yet it often raises questions and concerns regarding its implications for health.

"While body odour is a normal aspect of human physiology, certain scents can signal underlying medical conditions."

What types of body odours should we be worried about?

"In my years as a GP, I've encountered a varied bouquet of scents, each telling their own story," says Dr Raja.