Sweating

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Sweating

Sweating (pronunciation: /ˈswɛtɪŋ/) is a normal physiological process in the human body that helps regulate body temperature. It is also known as perspiration.

Etymology

The term "sweating" comes from the Old English "swætan", which means "to sweat". The term "perspiration" is derived from the Latin "perspirare", which means "to breathe through".

Definition

Sweating is the release of a salty liquid from the body's sweat glands. This process is also known as diaphoresis. Sweat is mostly water, but it also contains some salts and other compounds. Its main function is to control body temperature, but it also plays a role in other bodily functions.

Mechanism

Sweating is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, specifically the sympathetic nervous system. When the body's temperature rises, the sweat glands are stimulated to produce sweat. The sweat then evaporates from the skin, which cools the body down.

Related Terms

  • Sweat gland: These are small tubular structures of the skin that produce sweat.
  • Hyperhidrosis: This is a condition characterized by excessive sweating.
  • Anhidrosis: This is a condition where the body does not produce enough sweat.
  • Hypohidrosis: This is a condition where the body produces less sweat than normal.
  • Thermoregulation: This is the process by which the body maintains its internal temperature.

See Also

External links

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