What are sweat glands also known as?

Sweat glands are also known as sudoriferous glands. This term specifically refers to glands that produce sweat, which is primarily composed of water, salts, and a small amount of waste products. The primary function of sudoriferous glands is to help regulate body temperature through the process of evaporation, thereby aiding in thermoregulation.

These glands are classified into two types: eccrine glands, which are found all over the body and are particularly abundant on the palms, soles, and forehead, and apocrine glands, which are located primarily in areas such as the underarms and groin and become active during puberty.

Understanding the role of sudoriferous glands in maintaining homeostasis and their distinct characteristics compared to other gland types, such as sebaceous (which secrete oil), endocrine (which secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream), and exocrine (which typically secrete substances through ducts), highlights the importance of recognizing the terminology used in conjunction with these physiological structures.