lahottajasienet

Lahottajasienet, also known as "sweat glands," are specialized structures found in the skin of mammals, including humans. Their primary function is to regulate body temperature by producing sweat, which evaporates from the skin's surface, thereby cooling the body. Sweat glands are classified into two main types: eccrine and apocrine.

Eccrine sweat glands are the most numerous and are found throughout the body, except for the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. They are responsible for the majority of sweat production and are involved in thermoregulation and the excretion of waste products like sodium and potassium. Eccrine glands are simple coiled tubular glands that secrete a watery fluid.

Apocrine sweat glands are less common and are found in areas with hair follicles, such as the armpits, groin, and areolas. They produce a thicker, milky sweat that contains proteins and lipids. Apocrine glands are involved in the production of pheromones, which are chemical signals that can influence behavior and reproduction. Apocrine sweat is also a source of body odor.

Both types of sweat glands play crucial roles in maintaining homeostasis and overall health. However, excessive sweating or dysfunction of sweat glands can lead to various skin conditions and health issues. For example, hyperhidrosis is a condition characterized by excessive sweating, while hypohidrosis is a condition characterized by reduced sweating. Understanding the function and types of sweat glands is essential for appreciating their importance in human physiology.