svettsekretion

Svettsekretion, also known as sweating, is the production and release of sweat by sweat glands in the skin. This physiological process is primarily regulated by the autonomic nervous system, specifically the sympathetic nervous system. The main functions of svettsekretion are thermoregulation, helping to cool the body through evaporation, and excretion of certain waste products, although this is a less significant role.

There are two main types of sweat glands involved: eccrine and apocrine glands. Eccrine glands are found throughout the body and are responsible for the majority of sweat production, particularly during heat exposure or physical activity. Their secretions are mostly water and electrolytes. Apocrine glands are located mainly in the axillary (armpit) and genital regions and become active during puberty. Their secretions are thicker and contain more organic compounds, which can be broken down by bacteria, leading to body odor.

The control of sweating is complex and can be influenced by various factors including temperature, humidity, physical exertion, emotional state (stress or anxiety), certain foods, and some medications. Excessive sweating, known as hyperhidrosis, can occur in specific areas or the entire body and can be a primary condition or secondary to another medical issue. Conversely, a lack of sweating, anhidrosis, can be a serious condition as it impairs the body's ability to cool itself.