Sudomotor is a medical term used to describe the function of the sweat glands. It is spelled as [sudəʊˈməʊtə], with the 's' pronounced as 'suh', the 'u' as 'uh', the 'o' as 'oh', and the 'a' as 'uh'. The 'motor' part refers to the nerve fibers that control sweating. Damage to these fibers can result in a condition called sudomotor dysfunction, which can cause excessive or reduced sweating. Accurate spelling is important in medical terminology to avoid confusion and ensure proper communication among healthcare professionals.
Sudomotor refers to the physiological process involving the activity and control of the sweat glands in the body. The term specifically relates to the autonomic nervous system's regulation of sweat production or sudation.
The autonomic nervous system is responsible for managing various bodily functions that are not under voluntary control, including sweating. Sudomotor activity is orchestrated by the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system, which stimulates the sweat glands to produce sweat in response to triggers such as rising body temperature, emotional stress, or physical activity.
Sudomotor function is crucial for thermoregulation, as sweating helps to cool down the body by evaporating moisture from the skin's surface, thereby dissipating excess heat. Sweat glands are distributed throughout the body, but their density varies in different regions. They are more concentrated in areas such as the forehead, palms, and soles of the feet.
Disruptions to sudomotor function can occur in certain medical conditions, such as autonomic neuropathies or damage to the sympathetic nerves. These conditions may result in abnormal sweating patterns, excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), or diminished sweat production (anhidrosis). Sudomotor testing is sometimes performed to assess the integrity and function of the autonomic nervous system, particularly in the evaluation of certain disorders or diseases that can affect sudomotor activity.
Sudoriferous, noting especially the nerves which stimulate the sweat-glands to activity.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "sudomotor" is derived from the combination of two Latin roots: "sudor" and "motor".
1. "Sudor" comes from the Latin word "sudōrum" meaning "sweat". This root is related to terms like "sweat" in English, "Schweiß" in German, and "sueur" in French.
2. "Motor" originates from the Latin word "mōtor" which means "mover" or "one who imparts motion". This word is closely tied to the concept of movement and is related to terms such as "motion" in English, "Motoren" in German, and "moteur" in French.
When combined, "sudomotor" refers to something that influences or controls the production of sweat or the nerves responsible for sweat gland activity.