Higistused

Higistused is a term used to refer to the processes of sweating in the skin, the secretion of sweat by sweat glands. In everyday language it denotes perspiration and the physiological activity that produces moisture on the body's surface.

Physiology and composition: In humans sweating is produced mainly by eccrine glands, which are distributed across much of the skin, with higher density on the palms, soles, forehead, and underarms. Apocrine glands, found in the armpits and groin, contribute to body odor when their secretions are metabolized by skin bacteria. Sweat is predominantly water and electrolytes, with small amounts of urea, lactate, and other metabolites. The primary function is thermoregulation: as body temperature rises, the autonomic nervous system stimulates sweat production, and evaporation cools the skin.

Regulation and variation: Sweating is regulated by the sympathetic nervous system and can be influenced by heat, exercise, stress, and hormonal factors. Sweat rate varies with activity level, acclimatization to heat, fitness, climate, and body size. Typical rates during moderate exercise range broadly but can be several liters per hour in hot conditions.

Clinical relevance: Abnormal sweating includes hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) and hypohidrosis or anhidrosis (reduced or absent sweating). Management of hyperhidrosis may involve aluminum-based antiperspirants, oral anticholinergic medications, botulinum toxin injections, iontophoresis, or surgical interventions in severe cases.

Applications: Sweat analysis is used in sports science and medicine to assess hydration status and electrolyte balance, providing information for training and clinical decision-making.

Etymology and usage: The term originates from Estonian linguistic roots describing the act or result of sweat production.