The eccrine sweat glands are primarily responsible for sweating. These glands are found across almost the entire body surface and produce the highest volume of sweat. Their main function is to regulate body temperature through sweat secretion.
Types of Sweat Glands and Their Roles
Humans have two main types of sweat glands:
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Eccrine glands: These are the most numerous and widespread glands, responsible for the majority of sweat production. They play a crucial role in thermoregulation (maintaining body temperature). As noted by the Mayo Clinic, eccrine glands are involved in hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hyperhidrosis/multimedia/sweat-glands/img-20007980 A study in the NCBI confirms that eccrine sweat glands are responsible for the highest volume of sweat excretion. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6773238/ They are composed of a secretory coil and a duct tube.
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Apocrine glands: These glands are located in areas with many hair follicles, such as the scalp, armpits, and groin. While they also produce sweat, it's different in composition from eccrine sweat and contributes to body odor. Some research suggests that apocrine glands may play a role in body odor. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513244/
It's important to note that while sweat glands are responsible for producing sweat, the kidneys and liver are the organs primarily responsible for detoxifying the body. https://www.sweathelp.org/home/understanding-hyperhidrosis.html
The sympathetic nervous system controls sweat gland activity. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28714085/ For example, the auriculotemporal nerve plays a role in sweat gland innervation in certain areas of the skin. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562247/
