Know Your Body: Your feet have 5 lakh sweat glands each, here’s how it helps

Important exocrine glands responsible for producing sweat, a watery fluid that plays a crucial role in cooling the body, said Dr Sudheendra Udbalker, consultant, dermatology, Fortis Bannerghatta in Karnataka.

“These glands can be found all over the body, but they are particularly abundant in the palms, soles of the feet and armpits. The feet, in fact, boast the highest density of sweat glands, estimated at around 5 lakh per foot. These glands, known as large tubular eccrine glands, primarily produce sweat that consists mostly of water,” Dr Udbalker elucidated.

These glands are distributed abundantly across the body and are particularly prevalent in the soles of the feet, concurred Dr Khushali Lalcheta, consultant physician, HCG Hospital, Rajkot. “When body temperature rises, either due to environmental conditions or physical activity, eccrine glands spring into action, secreting a substance composed mainly of water, salt, and trace amounts of other substances like urea and lactic acid,” said Dr Lalcheta.

Know all about your sweat glands (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Why do we sweat?

The autonomic nervous system, comprising the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, plays a key role in sweat regulation. The sympathetic nervous system, responsible for the “fight-or-flight” response, triggers sweating when the body is under heat or stress, explained Dr Udbalker.

“Conversely, the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for the “rest-and-digest” response, decreases sweating when the body is cool and relaxed,” he said. The amount of sweat produced varies depending on various factors, such as ambient temperature, level of physical activity and emotional state.

“Individuals living in hot climates or engaging in physical exertion tend to sweat more than those in cold climates or those leading sedentary lifestyles. Moreover, anxiety and stress can also contribute to increased sweating,” said Dr Udbalker.

How much sweat is too much?

The sweat produced by the feet serves a crucial purpose beyond thermoregulation. According to Dr Lalcheta, it helps keep the skin hydrated, lubricated, and supple, preventing dryness and maintaining its protective barrier.

“However, the excessive production of sweat, known as hyperhidrosis, can lead to discomfort and foot-related issues. Conditions such as bromodosis (foot odour) and fungal infections are more likely to occur in moist environments, emphasising the importance of proper foot hygiene and care,” said Dr Lalcheta.

Dr Udbalker pointed out that hyperhidrosis can be influenced by genetics, anxiety, and certain medications. “On the other hand, hypohidrosis, a condition involving reduced sweating, can be caused by medications, diseases, or injuries. Anhidrosis, an infrequent condition, refers to the complete absence of sweating, which can be life-threatening as it increases the risk of heat stroke,” he said.

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