What effect does water loss (through heavy perpiration) have on a person's endocrine system?

Since this is not my area of expertise, I searched Google under the key words "perspiration 'endocrine system'" to get these possible sources:

http://www.history.com/encyclopedia.do?articleId=208541
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science?_ob=ArticleURL&_udi=B6V1N-3YF44P7-5&_user=10&_rdoc=1&_fmt=&_orig=search&_sort=d&view=c&_acct=C000050221&_version=1&_urlVersion=0&_userid=10&md5=30ede162bed40da31761bcc01896bed2
http://pages.lakenorman.com/5B/PCCN%20ENDO%20part%201.htm
http://facstaff.gpc.edu/~akell2/OnePage/A&P%20II%20endocrine%20lecture%20notes.htm

In the future, you can find the information you desire more quickly, if you use appropriate key words to do your own search. Also see http://hanlib.sou.edu/searchtools/.

I hope this helps. Thanks for asking.

Water loss through heavy perspiration can have several effects on a person's endocrine system. The endocrine system plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes in the body, including maintaining water balance. When there is excessive water loss, it can disrupt the normal functioning of the endocrine system in several ways:

1. Alteration in hormone levels: Water loss due to heavy perspiration can lead to dehydration. Dehydration can affect hormone production and secretion by the endocrine glands. For example, when the body is dehydrated, the hypothalamus, a key part of the endocrine system, releases anti-diuretic hormone (ADH) to preserve water and prevent further dehydration. This hormone causes the kidneys to reabsorb more water, reducing urine production. If the body remains dehydrated, the concentration of ADH may remain high, resulting in imbalances in the endocrine system.

2. Disruption of thermoregulation: Perspiration is an essential process for regulating body temperature. When we sweat, the body releases heat through the evaporation of sweat on the skin's surface. Excessive water loss through heavy perspiration can disrupt the body's ability to regulate its temperature, which can impact the function of the endocrine system. Temperature regulation is crucial for the optimal functioning of various endocrine glands, including the thyroid gland, which helps regulate metabolism and body heat production.

3. Impact on adrenal function: The adrenal glands play a vital role in responding to stress and maintaining fluid balance. During dehydration caused by water loss, the adrenal glands release the hormone aldosterone to conserve sodium and water in the body. Prolonged or severe water loss can lead to imbalances in aldosterone levels, affecting the regulation of blood pressure, electrolyte balance, and overall fluid homeostasis.

It is important to note that the effects on the endocrine system will depend on the severity and duration of water loss through heavy perspiration. Prompt rehydration and maintaining proper fluid balance are essential to minimize potential disruptions to the endocrine system. If you suspect any significant changes or symptoms related to the endocrine system, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation.