diaphoresis /dī′əfərē″sis/ [Gk, dia + pherein, to carry] , the secretion of sweat, especially the profuse secretion associated with an elevated body temperature, physical exertion, exposure to heat, and mental or emotional stress. Sweating is centrally controlled by the sympathetic nervous system and is primarily a thermoregulatory mechanism. However, the sweat glands on the palms and soles respond to emotional stimuli and do not always participate in thermal sweating. The rate of sweating is generally not affected by water deficiency, but it may be reduced by severe dehydration; it also diminishes when salt intake exceeds salt loss. Also called sweating. See also sudorific.
