The Lymphatic System

The lymphatic system plays a large role in the immune function and circulation. It moves fluid out of the tissues, and collects waste products, bacteria, dead cells and large protein molecules. From there, the waste products are carried to the lymph nodes to be broken down, filtered, and eliminated while the protein rich fluid is transported back to the heart to rejoin circulation.

Its main functions are to: Keep balance of fluid in tissues, Move proteins and digested fats, and Help fight infection by removing viruses and bacteria
When the lymph vessels become compromised they are unable to transport lymph fluid back into circulation, therefore it starts to accumulate and can result in chronic swelling. If it is left untreated it can also result in skin changes, such as hardening of the skin. This accumulation of protein rich lymph fluid is known as lymphedema.

Once this condition occurs, the swelling may increase or become chronic if an effective treatment program is not initiated – Manual Lymphatic Drainage/Combined Decongestive Therapy is most effective; which involves manual techniques applied to the skin with proper bandaging and compression garments.(link to treatment page)

Fun Facts;

  • The lymphatic system plays a key role in the immune system, fluid balance, and absorption of fats and fat-soluble nutrients.
  • As lymph vessels drain fluid from body tissues, this enables foreign material to be delivered to the lymph nodes for assessment by immune system cells.
  • The lymph nodes swell in response to infection, due to a build-up of lymph fluid, bacteria, or other organisms and immune system cells.
  • It maintains the balance of fluid between the blood and tissues, known as fluid homeostasis.
  • It forms part of the body’s immune system and helps defend against bacteria and other intruders.
  • It facilitates absorption of fats and fat-soluble nutrients in the digestive system.
  • There are about 600 lymph nodes in the body.
  • Around 2 liters of fluidleak from the cardiovascular system into body tissues every day.
  • Unlike blood, the lymphatic fluid is not pumped but squeezed through the vessels when we use our muscles.