Higinäärmeid

Higinäärmeid, more commonly known as sweat glands, are small tubular structures located in the dermis of the skin. Their primary function is thermoregulation, the process of maintaining a stable internal body temperature. When the body's temperature rises, the nervous system stimulates these glands to produce and secrete sweat. Sweat is primarily composed of water and electrolytes, and its evaporation from the skin's surface dissipates heat, thereby cooling the body.

There are two main types of sweat glands: eccrine and apocrine. Eccrine glands are distributed widely across the body and are responsible for the majority of sweat production, playing a crucial role in cooling. Apocrine glands, on the other hand, are found mainly in the axillary (armpit) and genital regions. They become active during puberty and their secretions are thicker and contain fatty acids and proteins, which can be broken down by bacteria on the skin, contributing to body odor.

The regulation of sweat gland activity is largely under the control of the sympathetic nervous system. Factors such as heat, physical exertion, stress, and certain emotions can trigger sweat production. While sweat serves a vital cooling function, it also plays a minor role in excreting waste products from the body. The number and activity of sweat glands can vary between individuals due to genetic and environmental factors.