Hawaii Massage License Practice Exam

What activates the sweat glands?

1. Endocrine System

2. Autonomic Nervous System

3. Central Nervous System

4. Skeletal System

The correct answer is: Autonomic Nervous System

The autonomic nervous system is responsible for activating the sweat glands, specifically through its sympathetic division. When the body needs to cool down, this system initiates the sweating process. It does so by sending signals to the sweat glands, prompting them to produce sweat, which then evaporates and helps to lower body temperature. The role of the endocrine system is more related to hormone secretion rather than the direct activation of sweat glands. The central nervous system does play a role in regulating overall body function, but it is the autonomic nervous system that specifically handles involuntary actions such as sweating. The skeletal system, while important for movement and structure, does not have a direct connection to the activation of sweat glands.