Sweating is a normal and natural function of the body that helps regulate body temperature and eliminate toxins. However, excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, can be a medical condition that can cause discomfort and embarrassment. Body odor is often associated with sweating, and can be caused by the breakdown of bacteria on the skin.

There are two types of hyperhidrosis: primary and secondary. Primary hyperhidrosis is a medical condition in which a person sweats excessively, without any underlying cause or trigger. This type of hyperhidrosis often affects the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and underarms, and can be managed with antiperspirants, medications, or in severe cases, surgery.

Secondary hyperhidrosis, on the other hand, is caused by an underlying medical condition, such as menopause, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, obesity, or anxiety. Treatment for secondary hyperhidrosis involves addressing the underlying condition.

Body odor can be caused by the breakdown of bacteria on the skin, as well as certain foods, medications, and medical conditions. The use of antiperspirants and deodorants can help manage body odor, as well as maintaining good hygiene, wearing breathable clothing, and avoiding certain foods and drinks that can contribute to body odor.

If sweating and body odor is causing significant discomfort or impacting the quality of life, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment options.

Sweating and body odor are caused by sweat glands in your body. The two main types of sweat glands are eccrine glands and apocrine glands. Eccrine glands occur over most of your body and open directly onto the surface of the skin. When your body temperature rises, these glands release fluids that cool your body as they evaporate.

Apocrine glands are found in areas where you have hair, such as your armpits and groin. These glands release a milky fluid when you're stressed. This fluid is odorless until it combines with bacteria on your skin.

If you're concerned about sweating and body odor, the solution may be simple: an antiperspirant or deodorant.

• Antiperspirant. Antiperspirants contain aluminium-based compounds that temporarily block sweat pores, thereby reducing the amount of sweat that reaches your skin.
• Deodorant. Deodorants can eliminate odor but not sweat. They're usually alcohol-based and turn your skin acidic, making it less attractive to bacteria. Deodorants often contain perfume fragrances intended to mask odor.

If nonprescription products don't help control your sweating, your doctor may prescribe a stronger product. These are strong solutions that can cause rashy, swollen and itchy skin in some people.

If you're concerned about sweating and body odor, the solution may be simple: an antiperspirant or deodorant.

• Antiperspirant. Antiperspirants contain aluminium-based compounds that temporarily block sweat pores, thereby reducing the amount of sweat that reaches your skin.
• Deodorant. Deodorants can eliminate odor but not sweat. They're usually alcohol-based and turn your skin acidic, making it less attractive to bacteria. Deodorants often contain perfume fragrances intended to mask odor.

If nonprescription products don't help control your sweating, your doctor may prescribe a stronger product. These are strong solutions that can cause rashy, swollen and itchy skin in some people.