People with diabetes may experience changes in body odor, but it is not the condition itself that causes a smell. Instead, certain metabolic changes or complications linked to diabetes can lead to distinct odors. These odors can serve as indicators of underlying health issues and are not a universal characteristic of living with diabetes.
Distinct Odors from Metabolic Changes
One notable odor linked to diabetes is a fruity or acetone-like smell on the breath. This scent often signals diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious medical emergency. DKA occurs when the body, lacking enough insulin, breaks down fat for energy, producing acidic byproducts called ketones, including acetone, which are then exhaled.
Another distinct odor is sweet-smelling urine, a sign of glycosuria. This occurs when very high blood sugar levels cause the kidneys to excrete excess glucose through urine. For some, sweet-smelling urine might indicate undiagnosed diabetes.
Odors Linked to Diabetes Complications
Odors can also arise from complications or co-occurring conditions. Poor circulation and nerve damage (neuropathy) can affect the feet, leading to ulcers. Infected ulcers often produce a foul smell from discharge and bacteria.
High blood sugar levels create an environment conducive to the growth of yeast, particularly Candida species. These fungal infections can cause a distinct, often yeasty or bread-like, odor in areas like skin folds, the groin, or the mouth, where it is known as thrush. The excess sugar in bodily fluids, including sweat and urine, feeds the yeast, leading to overgrowth.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are more common in people with diabetes and can cause urine to have a strong, foul smell. This is distinct from the sweet smell of glycosuria and results from bacterial activity within the urinary system. In advanced stages, kidney disease, a long-term complication of diabetes, can lead to a buildup of toxins in the body. This accumulation may manifest as a “fishy” or ammonia-like breath odor.
Strategies for Managing Odors
Controlling blood sugar levels is the most effective approach to managing and preventing diabetes-related odors. Maintaining stable glucose levels minimizes the risk of metabolic issues like DKA and glycosuria, which are direct causes of distinct smells. Consistent blood glucose management also helps reduce the likelihood of complications that can lead to odors, such as infections.
Good personal hygiene and diligent foot care are important preventive measures. Regular cleaning, especially of skin folds, and daily inspection of the feet can help prevent infections and associated odors. For individuals with diabetes, proper foot care includes moisturizing and wearing appropriate footwear to protect against injuries that could develop into ulcers.
Adequate hydration supports overall health and can help dilute substances in urine that contribute to strong odors. Drinking sufficient water assists the kidneys in their function and helps the body process waste. A balanced diet also plays a role by supporting stable blood sugar and contributing to general well-being. Nutritional choices impact metabolic processes and can indirectly influence body odor.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Any new, unusual, or worsening body or breath odor should prompt a medical consultation. Such changes can be significant indicators of underlying health concerns related to diabetes. Paying attention to these signals allows for timely intervention and management.
It is particularly important to seek immediate medical attention for symptoms accompanying fruity breath, which can indicate DKA. These symptoms include extreme thirst, frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, and confusion. DKA is a life-threatening condition that requires emergency care.
Medical attention is also advised for signs of infections, such as foot ulcers, UTIs, or yeast infections. Symptoms like redness, swelling, pain, discharge, fever, burning during urination, or persistent itching warrant evaluation. Regular check-ups with a healthcare professional are also important for ongoing diabetes management, helping to monitor and prevent complications.