Svedproduktion

Svedproduktion, also known as sweat production or perspiration, is the physiological process by which the human body releases sweat. This process is primarily regulated by the autonomic nervous system, specifically the sympathetic nervous system, through the release of acetylcholine. Sweat glands, classified into eccrine and apocrine types, are responsible for secreting sweat onto the skin's surface. Eccrine glands are distributed throughout the body and play a crucial role in thermoregulation, helping to cool the body by evaporation. Apocrine glands, found mainly in the axillae and genital areas, become active during puberty and their secretions are associated with body odor due to bacterial decomposition.

The composition of sweat is mainly water, with dissolved electrolytes like sodium, chloride, potassium, and urea. The primary function of svedproduktion is thermoregulation; as sweat evaporates from the skin, it draws heat away from the body, thus lowering its temperature. This is especially important during physical activity, exposure to heat, or fever. Svedproduktion also contributes to excretion of small amounts of waste products and plays a role in maintaining the skin's acid mantle, which has antimicrobial properties. Factors influencing sweat production include environmental temperature, physical exertion, emotional state (stress or anxiety can trigger sweating), and certain medical conditions or medications. Excessive sweating, known as hyperhidrosis, or reduced sweating, known as anhidrosis, can indicate underlying health issues.