Short Breakdown: the lymphatic system

May 11

Lymphatic system: network of small vessels that reach out to most of the body's tissues and drain lymph fluid from interstitial tissue spaces and return it to the venous system through ducts.

(Lymphatic vessels carry lymph, which is largely water gathered from interstitial tissue spaces. Fluid appears in the interstitial spaces because blood capillary walls are somewhat leaky, admitting part of the aqueous component of blood, along with some proteins.)

The supply of oxygen to the tissues happens from the blood system. That system involves a leakage of fluid outward to the capillary level. One of the functions of the lymphatic system is to gather this fluid and return it to the blood system to maintain overall fluid balance.

Lymph system does not have a pump. The lymphatic vessels have valves to keep it flowing to the heart. Lymph fluid moves from the pressure created from muscle contraction and from compression from the movement of adjacent tissues. .

Lymph vessels:

Maintain tissue fluid homeostasis through reabsorption of interstitial fluid

Transport of lipids and waste materials
Traffic of immune cells: immune cells from inflamed sites migrate to lymph vessels and then lymph nodes for discharge

Lymph nodes are located throughout the body categorized and superficial (just below the skin) or deep and often clustered in places including: neck, grain, armpit, around the gut. They act as filters. The immune cells trap germs in the lymph nodes as well as damaged cells and foreign particles. If nodes are swollen, usually a sign of an active immune system. Lymph nodes contain lymphocytes and macrophages (types of white blood cells).

Signs of Sluggish Lymphatic System:

Inadequate lymph transport is clinically referred to lymphedema which is when there is a buildup of tissue fluid because of impaired lymphatic drainage. Can result from injury, surgery, infection or radiation which damage lymph nodes.

Soreness/stiffness
Puffy
Skin issues: acne, sagging skin, dry skin, itchy, tingling
Swollen limbs
Fatigue
Brain fog
Weakened immunity
Cellulite
Headaches
Arthritis

How to support lymph system:

Dry brushing
Rebounding/jumping on trampoline/skipping rope
Massage
Walking
Yoga
Deep breathing
Alternating hot and cold showers
Compression therapy