Sweat is a type of exocrine secretion.
What is a secretion
A secretion, therefore, can be the process that a living being develops to release a substance from its body . The notion is also used to name what it expels.
The secretion process begins in cells , when a substance leaves the cytoplasm through exocytosis or osmosis . If the substance leaves the body, it is called an exocrine secretion , while if the secretion remains inside the body, it is an endocrine secretion . In a similar sense, one can differentiate between exocrine glands and endocrine glands according to the destination of the secretions of each gland.
Some examples
Sweat is an example of an exocrine secretion . It is a fluid, similar in composition to that of urine, secreted by the sweat gland and released to the outside of the body through the pores.
Oxytocin , calcitonin , insulin and dopamine , on the other hand, are some examples of endocrine secretions . These substances are released by glands that are part of the so-called endocrine system , responsible for secreting hormones that fulfill various functions.
Through secretions, plants manage to satisfy different needs.
Nipple discharge
There can be many types of secretion and among them is that of the nipple, which is, as its name indicates, when a liquid arises from that area of the chest. There are many causes that can lead a person to suffer from it, however, among the most common are being pregnant, having recently carried out the breastfeeding process, suffering from an infection, taking certain medications...
These situations presented come to reveal a secretion that can be considered normal. However, it will be necessary to go to the doctor when you notice symptoms like these: the liquid only emanates from one nipple, there are traces of blood or it comes out on its own, without the chest being squeezed. In these cases it will be essential to make an appointment with the doctor because, among other things, it may be the result of the existence of a tumor.
Other processes of this type
What is known as ear discharge can also occur. As a general rule, when this occurs there is no need to worry since the fluid secreted is usually earwax. However, if it occurs with some frequency, there is the presence of blood or yellowish or dry material appears, it may indicate serious situations such as a ruptured eardrum, severe eczema, severe otitis or even an infection.
Nasal discharge, which would be mucus, or even vaginal discharge are other of the most common cases that anyone experiences and that may require medical assistance.
It is important to note that plants and bacteria also develop secretions that satisfy various functional needs.