Perspiration
Perspiration
Perspiration (pronunciation: /ˌpɜːspəˈreɪʃən/), also known as sweating, is a normal function of the human body. It is the process of producing and excreting moisture from the sweat glands in the skin, which aids in cooling the body and maintaining a stable internal temperature.
Etymology
The term "perspiration" comes from the Latin word 'perspirare' which means "to breathe through". It is a combination of 'per' (through) and 'spirare' (to breathe).
Function
Perspiration is primarily a means of thermoregulation which is controlled by the autonomic nervous system. Sweat is mostly water, but it also contains some salts. Its main function is to control body temperature. When the body temperature rises, the nervous system stimulates the sweat glands to secrete sweat. As the sweat evaporates from the skin surface, it cools the body.
Related Terms
- Sweat Glands: These are small tubular structures of the skin that produce sweat. There are two types of sweat glands: eccrine glands and apocrine glands.
- Eccrine Glands: These are the major sweat glands of the human body, found in virtually all skin. They produce a clear, odorless substance, consisting primarily of water.
- Apocrine Glands: These are sweat glands that are found in the underarm and genital area. They produce a thicker, milky sweat that can produce odor when it comes into contact with bacteria on the skin.
- Hyperhidrosis: This is a condition characterized by excessive sweating, usually in areas where there is a high concentration of sweat glands. It is often a symptom of an underlying health condition, such as diabetes or hyperthyroidism.
- Anhidrosis: This is the inability to sweat normally. It can be life-threatening because it hampers the body's ability to cool down and can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Perspiration
- Wikipedia's article - Perspiration
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