Sweat glands

Definition

Sweat glands are specialized exocrine glands located in the skin that produce and secrete sweat, a fluid composed primarily of water, electrolytes, and metabolic waste products. These glands play a vital role in thermoregulation by helping to cool the body through evaporative cooling, and they also assist in maintaining skin hydration and protecting against pathogens.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. There are two main types of sweat glands: eccrine and apocrine, each serving different functions in the body.
2. Eccrine sweat glands are activated primarily by heat and exercise, while apocrine glands become active during emotional stress.
3. The sweat produced by eccrine glands helps to regulate body temperature through evaporation, which cools the skin.
4. Apocrine sweat is more viscous and can lead to body odor due to bacterial decomposition of the organic compounds present in it.
5. Sweat also contains electrolytes such as sodium and chloride, which are important for maintaining fluid balance in the body.

Review Questions

• How do eccrine and apocrine sweat glands differ in terms of structure and function?
  • Eccrine sweat glands are small, coiled structures located throughout the body that produce a clear, watery sweat primarily for thermoregulation. They are directly connected to the skin's surface and help cool the body through evaporation. In contrast, apocrine sweat glands are larger and found mainly in specific areas like the armpits and groin. Their secretions contain proteins and fatty substances that can contribute to body odor when metabolized by bacteria.
• Discuss the role of sweat glands in maintaining homeostasis within the human body.
  • Sweat glands play a critical role in maintaining homeostasis by regulating body temperature through thermoregulation. When the body heats up due to exercise or environmental factors, eccrine sweat glands secrete sweat that evaporates from the skin's surface, cooling the body down. Additionally, by excreting small amounts of waste products through sweat, these glands contribute to maintaining electrolyte balance, which is essential for overall physiological function.
• Evaluate the impact of impaired sweat gland function on human health and performance.
  • Impaired sweat gland function can significantly affect human health and performance by disrupting thermoregulation and increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Conditions like anhidrosis (lack of sweating) can lead to overheating during physical activities or in hot environments, making it dangerous for individuals engaged in sports or outdoor work. Additionally, alterations in sweat composition may impact skin health or contribute to conditions like hyperhidrosis, leading to discomfort and social implications.

Related terms

eccrine glands: Eccrine glands are a type of sweat gland found all over the body, primarily on the palms, soles, and forehead, which produce a clear, odorless sweat that is important for temperature regulation.

apocrine glands: Apocrine glands are sweat glands located mainly in the axillary and genital areas that secrete a thicker, milky sweat containing proteins and fatty substances, which can lead to body odor when broken down by bacteria.

thermoregulation: Thermoregulation is the process by which the body maintains its internal temperature within a narrow range despite changes in external environmental conditions.