Lymphatic system. Lymph movement

AT human body contains about 1-2 liters of lymph, or ichor. This clear fluid contains a large number of lymphocytes. The lymphatic system is closely connected with the circulatory system, it returns water, salts and proteins from tissues to the blood.

The lymphatic system cleanses the body of toxins and bacteria.

Lymph nodes purify the lymph from viruses, toxins and bacteria, thereby raising the human immunity. This task is the main one among the functions performed by the lymphatic system.

Thanks to its work, the interstitial fluid is cleansed and redistributed in the human body. This happens with the help of a whole system of lymph nodes. Excess fluid from the interstitial space enters them from the capillaries.

At the first level, this fluid undergoes initial cleansing in smaller lymph nodes. Then, through large vessels, the lymph passes to the next stage of purification, to larger lymph nodes.

Cleaning products (dead cells, viruses) during lymph stagnation cannot reach the liver - this waste processing factory and the final link in the cleansing process. They settle in the lymph nodes, causing their increase, partially excreted through the skin, mucous membranes of the eyes and respiratory tract of a person.

Reasons for slowing down the circulation of lymph in the human body

Slowing of the lymph flow, problems with the elimination of toxins and the remains of the vital activity of pathogenic viruses and bacteria can be associated with the following reasons:

Prolonged psycho-emotional stress, stress. Many clinicians consider stress to be the cause of the vast majority of human systems.
Imbalance digestive system. The lymphoid tissue of the intestine in violation of the diet becomes unable to perform the functions of cleansing.
Iodine deficiency through endocrine system of the body, closely related to the lymphatic, affects the fact that the body is defenseless against toxins, lymph flow is blocked.

How to understand that the lymphatic system needs cleansing

Cleaning the lymphatic system can not be done during pregnancy and lactation.

Products remaining after cleansing the interstitial fluid, and exiting in an unconventional way, cause various diseases:

papillomatosis,
skin pigmentation in the form of individual spots,
acne,
inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs,
inflammatory diseases of the joints,
allergic reactions,
swelling of small joints,
flatulence,
thrombophlebitis.

By regularly cleaning the lymphatic system, you can get rid of allergies, increase your immune level, rejuvenate organs and systems. The recommended frequency of cleansing is 3-4 times a year at the first stage, then 1-2 times is enough.

Contraindications for cleansing the lymphatic system - pregnancy, lactation. Restrictions for this procedure may be:, diseases of the heart and blood vessels, hypertension.

It is possible to use gentle cleansing methods under medical supervision.

Stimulation of the lymphatic system

Natural juices will help to avoid stagnation of the lymphatic system.

To avoid stagnation of the lymphatic system, you need to drink natural juices. Regulation of acid-base and water-salt balance in this way will accelerate the circulation of lymph.

The same effect on the body exercise stress and massage. For application, you can use the exercises of the “Nisha healing system”.

The Japanese doctor Katsuzo Nishi suggests such an exercise to stimulate the lymphatic system: you need to shake your raised limbs while lying on your back.

In this case, the muscles should be as relaxed as possible. Daily performance of this exercise for 2-5 minutes in the morning and in the evening will lead to the desired result.

The same result can be achieved by performing for joints from Mirzakarim Norbekov's health course. He recommends every morning to bend and unbend all joints, rotating them after extension. You need to start with small joints and end with large ones. Such movements, due to muscle contraction, will help move the lymph through the vessels and avoid its stagnation.

Body massage will help cleanse the lymphatic system no worse than gymnastics. When doing it, you must strictly follow the rule: massage movements are carried out towards the center from the periphery of the body, in the direction of the lymphatic fluid. Hands and feet are massaged from the bottom up, because the lymph can only move in this direction. It is forbidden to massage the lymph nodes themselves.

It is also not forbidden to cleanse the lymphatic system by visiting saunas and baths. An immutable rule applies here - the temperature of the air, the room, the bath or the water in the shower should not be higher than 60 ° C.

Physiotherapeutic heating of the lymph nodes for the purpose of recovery is not used.

Cleansing the lymph according to Butakova

The lymphatic system is very important in the process of preventing diseases of many organs and systems.

Doctor - naturopath O.A. Butakova developed a cleaning system, tested it on herself and her patients and introduces everyone to this procedure for cleansing the lymphatic system.

She considers the role of lymph to be very significant in the process of diseases of many organs and systems. A doctor with more than 25 years of experience advises combining physical activity with the following lymph cleansing sequence:

Activation of the transition of fluid from the interstitial space to the lymph nodes, kidneys, liver and intestines.
Adsorption of toxic substances from the intestine.
Replenishment of minerals and vitamins lost as a result of cleaning.

For a cleansing course, you need: licorice tablets, Spirulina algae tablets, vitamin complexes and. If it is not possible to purchase probiotics or vitamin complexes, they can be replaced activated carbon and vitamin C in combination with folic acid. Cleaning sequence:

Licorice - reception 3 times a day, dissolving the tablet in warm water.
Spirulina - 40 minutes after licorice, 2 pieces half an hour before meals.
Probiotics and - in parallel with the intake of Spirulina and licorice.
On the course of purification Butakova O.A. takes 10 to 14 days.

You will learn about the methods of cleaning the lymphatic system from the video:

Cleansing the lymphatic system with folk remedies

Rosehip tea has useful properties for the lymphatic system.

There are many folk recipes cleansing the lymph with improvised means: juices, food and infusions or.

Patients with chronic diseases preferably before use folk remedies visit a doctor in order to assess the risks and contraindications.

It is impossible to discount allergic reactions and individual intolerance to certain products in absolutely healthy people. Lymph cleansing methods:

Rolling in the mouth of a spoonful of unrefined . This is done in the morning, distilling oil through the teeth and back, which after 20 minutes becomes thick and changes its color. The oil is not swallowed, but spit out.
Reception within 4 days of a decoction in the milk of onions and garlic. One head of these vegetables needs to be chopped, add a lemon cut along with the peel. Everything is boiled in milk for a few minutes. The resulting decoction should be divided into 4 days for half a glass twice a day half an hour before meals. During cleansing, you can not use any, except for the decoction.
A mixture of juices of beets, carrots and cucumbers in a ratio of 1:6:3 in the amount of 2 liters is drunk per day every hour in a glass.
Regular consumption of dogwood, barberry, sorrel, chokeberry, red currant perfectly cleanses the lymph.
The collection of rose hips, willow-herb, oregano, plantain, grass of the bird mountaineer has the same properties. Collection for a month is brewed and drunk instead of tea.
450 ml of celandine juice, obtained from the stems and leaves ground in a meat grinder, fix 70 ml of alcohol for longer storage. Before each meal, take it, starting with one drop and adding one more each time. When the number of drops per dose reaches 15, they are reduced by one, returning to the original amount.

Diet after cleansing activities

Fresh fruits help to improve the body and prevent lymph stagnation.

A specially selected one will help to maintain the effect of cleaning the lymphatic system. She herself can serve as a mild cleanser, a rational nutrition system will prevent a return to previous indicators, to lymph stagnation. Featured Products:

Fresh fruits, especially cranberries and avocados.
Spicy greens, lettuce.
Flax seed and
Spirulina is a type of seaweed.
Walnuts, almonds.

A unique combination in the products of microelements, vitamins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, antioxidants helps to improve the body, prevents lymph stagnation. The optimal drinking regime will complement the effect - 6-8 glasses of high-quality purified, herbal teas, infusions of clover, echinacea, calendula, bedstraw, mullein flowers and leaves.

All these components can be mixed in an arbitrary proportion and drunk to quench your thirst as a tea in a glass several times a day. It is advisable to minimize the consumption of food that slagging the body:

Products with preservatives and synthetic flavors.
Refined cereals, sugar, sunflower oil.
Sweets, sweet pastries.
Smoked products, pickles.
Carbonated drinks.
If you follow these rules, slags and toxins will gradually leave the body, there will be no stagnation of the lymphatic fluid.

After cleansing the lymphatic system various means the result is felt almost immediately. The nervous system returns to normal, chronic inflammatory diseases go into remission, strength and frequency decrease, immunity increases significantly.

Lymph is a clear fluid that circulates throughout the body. Its main function is to cleanse the body of toxins and infectious agents by supplying intercellular fluid to the lymph nodes, as well as transporting nutrients from the lymph nodes to the human circulatory system. The lymphatic system, through which lymph moves, is a complex structure similar to the circulatory system. There are a number of diseases of the lymphatic system, which are very dangerous, so they must be detected in a timely manner.

The efficiency of the whole organism depends on the health of the lymphatic system.

The lymphatic system serves to cleanse the body. It ensures the maintenance of metabolism and tissue trophism, and also removes toxins, infections and pathogens from tissues and organs.

The lymphatic system is a complex structure, the structure of which is similar to that of circulatory system. However, unlike the circulatory system, the lymphatic system is not closed, so the lymph does not circulate in a circle, but moves strictly from the bottom up.

Passing through the lymph nodes, the lymph is cleared and moves on. Approximately at the level of the collarbone, it enters the circulatory system, thus supplying the necessary substances to the blood.

The anatomy and structure of the lymphatic system is quite complex, the movement of lymph is carried out thanks to the smooth muscle structures of the lymphatic vessels, since there is no “pump” like the heart in this system.

The movement of lymph is carried out throughout the body. The main function of the lymphatic system is the production of immune cells - lymphocytes. Passing through the lymph nodes, the lymph is saturated with these cells and brings them into the circulatory system, ensuring the normal functioning of the immune system.

Any disturbances in the functioning of the body immediately affect the functioning of the lymphatic system. So, diseases accompanied by a decrease in immunity, and systemic infections can lead to an increase and inflammation of the lymph nodes.

The lymphatic system can fail with autoimmune diseases, infections, SARS and influenza, etc.

The efficiency of the whole organism depends on the health of the lymphatic system, since local disturbances in the movement of the lymph lead to its decrease, and also cause a number of problems. severe symptoms. In order to timely recognize a malfunction of the lymphatic system, you should know how it works, its functions and symptoms of various disorders.

Lymph capillaries

The lymphatic system begins with the lymphatic capillaries that permeate the entire human body. They are rather large formations compared to blood capillaries.

Features of the lymphatic capillaries:

large diameter - up to 0.2 mm;
the contours are uneven, there are protrusions of the walls of the capillaries;
the walls are thin, permeable to the interstitial fluid.

Lymphatic capillaries "collect" the intercellular fluid, transport it to the vessels, and from there to the lymph nodes. The liquid literally passes through the walls of the capillaries, due to the peculiarities of their structure.

Capillaries can form lymphocapillary networks. Such networks are located near large organs and help collect intercellular fluid.

The main function of the capillaries of the lymphatic system is to collect tissue fluid and supply it to the lymphatic vessels. The tissue fluid that enters the lymphatic system is called lymph.

Lymphatic vessels go around the joints, bifurcating in front of them

The fusion of lymphatic capillaries forms a lymphatic vessel. The main difference between a vessel and a capillary is thicker walls and a larger diameter. If the capillary wall is formed by a single layer of endothelial cells, the vessel walls consist of three layers:

connective tissue sheath (outer layer);
smooth muscle tissue that forms the middle layer;
endothelial cells that form the inner layer of the vessel wall.

It is the cells of smooth muscle tissue that provide the movement of lymph through the lymphatic vessels. Vessels have valves that ensure the movement of lymph from the periphery to the center.

The location of the vessels of the lymphatic system largely repeats the structure of the blood vessels. Deep lymphatic vessels are located in the muscles and near internal organs, most of them run parallel to the blood vessels. Superficial lymphatic vessels run parallel to all major saphenous veins. Lymphatic vessels go around the joints, bifurcating in front of them, and gathering into a large vessel after the joint - this ensures the continuity of the lymphatic system.

Interesting! Large lymphatic vessels have nerve endings in the walls.

The vessels of the lymphatic system, like the lymphatic capillaries, can connect to form networks.

The lymph nodes

The lymph node is the most important organ of the lymphatic system. It is this organ that performs the main function - cleansing and saturating the lymph with immune cells. It is a formation of a round, oval or bean-shaped shape with a complex structure.

Lymph nodes are located in all parts of the body except the back, as well as near important internal organs. In general, there can be from 400 to 800 lymph nodes in the human body. Their sizes range from a few millimeters to two centimeters in diameter.

Large lymph nodes are located superficially. These are the so-called signal lymph nodes, which are located on the neck, in the groin and in the armpits. With any violation of immunity, they can noticeably increase in size.

Most of the lymph nodes are located in abdominal cavity and along the intestines. Different people can have from 100 to 400 lymph nodes in this zone. Various toxins and by-products of digestion are absorbed from the intestines into the lymph in large quantities, therefore a large number of lymph nodes “work” in this zone at the same time to ensure the normal functioning of the digestive system and the whole organism as a whole.

Lymph nodes are the most vulnerable part of the lymphatic system. In them, the maturation of immune cells (lymphocytes) occurs and antibodies produced by the body to fight various infections accumulate. When the lymph enters the node, it goes through several stages of purification, and all the "pollution" remains in the lymph nodes. If there are too many of them, they can accumulate in these organs, causing inflammation of the lymph nodes (lymphadenitis).

In addition, sentinel lymph nodes are a kind of marker of the health of the whole organism. They increase against the background of severe infectious processes, inflammation, autoimmune reactions, and oncopathologies.

Lymph trunks and ducts

The thoracic duct is the largest in the body

Lymph nodes are connected and form the main ways of movement of lymph in the body - the lymphatic trunks and ducts.

In total, there are 6 such trunks and ducts in the human body, three for the left and right venous nodes. The thoracic duct is the largest. It receives lymph from lower extremities, abdominal cavity, mediastinum. Then, through the thoracic duct, the lymph enters the circulatory system.

To prevent reverse movement of the lymph, the ducts and trunks are equipped with valves that allow fluid to flow in only one direction, so that the lymph moves only from the bottom up.

Lymph movement pattern

The movement of lymph is carried out from the lower extremities to the head. The flow of lymph in the body is provided well-coordinated work the entire lymphatic system. Lymph enters the vessels and lymph circulation occurs according to the following scheme:

lymphocapillaries collect intercellular fluid from surrounding organs and tissues;
capillaries form vessels through which lymph moves to the lymph node;
lymph is cleansed in the lymph nodes, after which it is saturated with immune cells;
from the lymph node, the lymph exits into large vessels called trunks;
lymph moves along the trunks into the ducts, penetrating into the circulatory system.

The lymphatic system does not have a pump to move the lymph. Lymph circulation is maintained by the vessels themselves, which push fluid out thanks to the smooth muscle cells of the walls.

To understand how the human lymphatic system works, the diagram will help best of all, since the movement of lymph can only be explained in general terms. In general, lymph in the human body moves from bottom to top, from the periphery to the center, and then enters the circulatory system.

What is lymph?

Lymph serves to transport nutrients to the blood.

Having figured out how the lymphatic system works, you should take a closer look at what lymph is and why it is needed. Lymph is a clear liquid that flows throughout the body. The colloquial name for lymph is ichor.

Despite the fact that few people know how the lymphatic system works, a person encounters lymph very often. For example, a clear liquid protruding from the wound after the blood stops - this is the lymph.

Lymph and lymphatic circulation are very important concepts that need to be understood. Thanks to this fluid, the regulation of immunity is ensured. In other words, if it were not for the lymph, the human body would be worse able to cope with various infections and harmful compounds that enter the air through Airways.

The main properties of lymph are to cleanse the body and ensure the transport of immune cells into the circulatory system.

At the same time, lymph cells can pose a serious danger to the whole organism, in case of special serious illnesses. The lymphatic system serves to transport nutrients into the blood, but it can also serve as a kind of highway for infections and cancer cells in the event of a strong weakening of the body. So, if the immune system is significantly weakened, the lymphatic system cannot cope with the load, so the intercellular fluid is not completely cleared, and infectious agents settle in the lymph nodes. Through the movement of lymph, they can be carried throughout the body.

Where does lymph come from?

The formation of lymph occurs directly with the penetration of interstitial fluid into the lymphatic system. This fluid is a by-product of the blood that enters the intercellular space through the blood capillaries. Thus, blood and lymph are indeed strongly connected and complement each other.

This fluid bathes every cell in the body. It collects all harmful substances, including infections and toxins, and then literally seeps through the lymphatic capillaries into the lymphatic system. At this stage, the tissue fluid becomes lymph, and its further transformation occurs due to the lymph nodes. Blood and lymph are related in the following way. Tissue fluid is formed when blood pressure, as a result of which some of the fluid penetrates into the intercellular space. This fluid then enters the lymphatic system and after some transformation becomes lymph. The functions of the lymph include the transport of nutrients into the circulatory system, so after a short period of time, the lymph enters the bloodstream, again becoming part of it.

Compound

The lymph consists mainly of water and immune cells. The composition of lymph is approximately 96-97% water or interstitial fluid. There are no erythrocytes in the ichorus, however, it contains a large number of lymphocytes, the maturation of which is carried out in the lymphatic system. In addition to lymphocytes, lymph contains a small amount of other leukocytes - monocytes and granulocytes.

Important! The main cells of the lymph are represented by lymphocytes or immune cells, thanks to which humoral immunity is supported.

However, to the question of what lymph is, one cannot simply answer that it is water. In small quantities, lymph contains:

proteins;
glucose;
lipids;
minerals.

AT chemical composition There are three types of protein in the lymph - albumin, fibrinogen, globulin.

Functions

The functions of the lymph include the transport of nutrients into the circulatory system.

Having figured out what lymph consists of and what it is, you should dwell in more detail on the functions of lymph in the body. Together with tissue fluid, not only harmful compounds enter the lymphatic system, but also proteins, minerals, and electrolytes necessary for the body. These substances are needed by the body, so they must return to the blood - this is precisely the function that the lymph performs.

In addition, lymph itself is needed in order to transport immune cells and antibodies into the blood from the lymph nodes. After the lymph passes through the lymph nodes, it is cleared of harmful substances, and everything useful that is contained in the lymph must return back to the circulatory system. Thus, the following functions of this liquid can be distinguished:

transport of electrolytes, proteins and water into the blood from the intercellular space;
transport of enzymes into the blood;
protection of the body from infection of injuries and wounds.

With any damage to the skin, blood first comes out of the wound, and then lymph. This fluid collects red blood cells and bacteria in damaged tissues, thereby protecting against the development of inflammation.

Some enzymes can enter the blood only through the lymph - these are histaminase and lipase. This is how the metabolic function of the lymph and the lymphatic system as a whole manifests itself. In addition, through the lymph, a constant connection is maintained between tissues and organs, as well as between the lymphatic and circulatory systems.

The exact speed of lymph movement is unknown, but on average, a person's body produces from two to four liters of this fluid per day. The process of lymph release from tissues is continuous, so the loss of this fluid is replenished soon enough.

Knowing everything about lymph and the features of the lymphatic system, each person will be able to better understand how his own body works.

What are the differences between blood and lymph?

The difference between the lymphatic and circulatory systems is the presence of a “pump” (heart) in the second

On the one hand, blood and lymph are different fluids necessary for the human body. On the other hand, they are closely related. Without loss of water in the blood, with an increase in pressure, lymph will not form, since it is this process, natural for each organism, that leads to the appearance of intercellular fluid. Having figured out how lymph is formed (from water penetrating into the intercellular space from the blood), and where it is located, it becomes clear that it cannot function without blood. Lymph is obtained from the blood and then incorporated into the blood. However, the composition of these two liquids is different. Lymph consists mainly of water, blood is plasma and a suspension of cellular components (erythrocytes, leukocytes). There are a lot of proteins in blood plasma, so it is more viscous and dense than lymph.

Like blood, lymph coagulates. However, this process is much slower. You can notice this at the site of small wounds - after a while the ichorus becomes denser, instead of a freely flowing liquid, a small transparent and yellowish clot appears.

The main difference between the lymphatic and circulatory systems is the presence of a “pump” in the second, the function of which is performed by the heart. Thanks to this, the blood circulates in a circle, but the lymph always moves in only one direction.

The main function of blood is to transport oxygen to tissues and organs, while lymph serves to supply useful substances to the blood, thereby supplementing it. The main differences between lymph and blood can be summarized as follows:

Blood supplies oxygen and useful material, lymph serves to cleanse the body or drain.
Blood moves much faster than lymph. Moreover, the blood velocity changes with fluctuations blood pressure, while the speed of lymph movement is a constant value.
The difference between lymph and blood is in composition, functions, speed of movement, however, both fluids are closely interconnected.
The kidneys and liver are “engaged” in cleaning the blood, and the lymph nodes are the lymph nodes.
The volume of circulating blood is 4-5 liters, the amount of lymph in the human body is an average of 2-3 liters.

In addition, for clarity, you can compare the tables of the composition of lymph and blood in order to clearly see the differences between these fluids.

The importance of lymph in the human body is difficult to overestimate. Having figured out what lymph and blood consist of, it becomes clear that they are inextricably linked and complement each other's functions.

Lymph movement after surgery

As already mentioned, the location of the lymph is the whole body. Lymph is located in the lymphatic capillaries and vessels, through which it moves to the lymph nodes for purification. Despite the fact that this fluid serves to remove excess from the body, violations of the speed of its movement have Negative consequences for good health.

Normally, lymph flow is constant. It may deteriorate if damaged. lymphatic vessels, ducts and nodes. Thus, the speed of lymph movement after surgery may decrease. Such a disease of the lymph is called lymphostasis, the main symptoms are severe swelling and pain at the site of vascular damage.

In the vast majority of cases, the deterioration of lymph outflow occurs after breast surgery - radical mastectomy. Such surgical interventions are the main treatment for breast cancer, while the deterioration of the lymph flow is due to the removal of the lymph nodes located around the breast and in the armpit. Removal of the lymph node in this case is carried out due to the spread of metastases from the mammary glands, or to prevent this process in the event of further progression of cancer.

Analysis of the composition of the lymph

For a general assessment of the state of the lymphatic system, there is no need to take lymph - a blood test is enough

The composition of the lymph is determined by puncturing the lymph node (biopsy) and taking a large number liquids for analysis. Indications for such an analysis are inflammation of the lymph nodes, prolonged enlargement of the lymph nodes, suspicion of oncology.

A healthy person does not need to take a prophylactic lymph test; the health of the lymphatic system can be assessed by a biochemical blood test.

A biopsy of the lymph nodes is a rather traumatic procedure, which is prescribed only if there are strict indications. In other cases, the evaluation of the work of the lymphatic system is carried out according to the general and biochemical blood tests. By the nature of the change in the number of lymphocytes, a diagnosis can be made in case of suspicion of pathology of the lymphatic system. Moreover, a biochemical blood test can detect lymphoma on early stage.

Diseases of the lymphatic system

Knowing what lymph looks like, where it comes from and how it flows in the body, it becomes clear that the lymphatic system is subjected to tremendous stress every day, providing cleansing of the body and supporting immunity. Accordingly, there are a number of pathologies of this system in which the movement of the lymph is disturbed. There are three main groups of diseases:

pathology of the lymph nodes;
lymphomas;
lymphostasis.

Pathologies of the lymph nodes are associated with pathogenic bacteria and infections absorbed into the lymph from the affected surrounding tissues and organs. In addition, antibodies and immune cells formed in the lymph nodes cannot always cope with the disease, so the lymph nodes become infected and inflamed, and the lymph can spread the infection throughout the body.

Lymphadenitis and lymphadenopathy

Causes of lymphadenitis - any infectious diseases organs (ARVI, influenza) located near the affected lymph node

Most often there are two pathologies of the lymph nodes - lymphadenopathy and lymphadenitis. Lymphadenopathy is called enlargement of the lymph nodes. This is not an independent disease, but rather a symptom, meaning that something is going wrong in the body. Most often, the lymphatic system reacts with an increase in lymph nodes to episodes of weakening. immune system. Causes of lymphadenopathy:

infections;
inflammatory diseases of the upper respiratory tract;
pathology of the digestive system;
diseases of the mediastinum;
tuberculosis;
sexually transmitted diseases;
allergic reactions;
post-vaccination reactions;
autoimmune processes.

As a rule, lymphadenopathy is observed in those groups of lymph nodes that are closest to the diseased organ. So, with tonsillitis, they increase cervical lymph nodes, with mastopathy - chest and axillary, with diseases of the genitourinary system - inguinal. The lymph nodes of the abdominal cavity increase against the background of gastrointestinal diseases, including exacerbation of chronic diseases. The only specific symptom of lymphadenopathy is an increase in lymph nodes.

Lymphadenitis is an inflammation of a lymph node. If lymphadenopathy is not a disease, and therefore does not require treatment, lymphadenitis is very dangerous. At inflammatory process the lymph node noticeably increases, the skin around it turns red, pain appears on palpation and at rest. The causes of lymphadenitis are any infectious diseases of organs located near the affected lymph node. The infection penetrates the lymph nodes with the lymph flow when they are unable to cope with the cleansing of the lymph due to the large number of pathogenic bacteria and toxic compounds.

The causes of lymphadenitis are predominantly bacterial, the disease can cause:

staphylococcus;
streptococcus;
Pneumococcus;
pale treponema;
Koch stick.

All these bacteria cause inflammatory diseases. Pale treponema is the causative agent of syphilis, Koch's bacillus is Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Treatment of lymph in this case is to take antibacterial agents. The drugs are selected by the doctor after a series of relevant tests to accurately identify the causative agent of the disease.

It should be remembered that with pathologies of the lymph nodes, it is important not only to eliminate the symptoms, but also the disease that caused inflammation or enlargement of the organs of the lymphatic system.

Lymphomas

Lymphomas are a group of diseases of the lymphatic tissue. They are divided into two types - Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. Hodgkin's lymphoma (lymphogranulomatosis) is a malignant pathology of the lymphatic system with rapid progression and complex treatment. The disease is asymptomatic for a long time. A sign of pathology may be an increase in sentinel lymph nodes without any other ailments and signs. This disease is treated with radiation and chemotherapy. In advanced cases, the disease can be cured only by bone marrow transplantation. Due to the absence of specific symptoms at an early stage, the pathology is characterized by a high probability of death.

Non-Hodgkin's lymphomas are also called lymphosarcomas. Essentially, this benign tumor lymphoid tissue, which spreads from one pathological focus throughout the lymphatic system. The first symptom of the disease is an increase in one or more superficial lymph nodes and general malaise. As a rule, non-Hodgkin's lymphomas are treated quite successfully, but timely diagnosis and therapy are important here. Any benign lymphoma has some risk of malignancy.

Lymphomas are diagnosed with biochemical analysis blood. Since no one is immune from this disease, it is recommended to take a blood test annually.

Lymphostasis

At the initial stage of lymphostasis, lymphatic drainage massage shows high efficiency.

The definition of lymphostasis is the accumulation of fluid with a high content of protein in the lower or upper limbs. Pathology develops as a result of a violation of the outflow of lymph due to damage to the lymphatic vessels, removal of lymph nodes or oncopathologies.

The disease usually affects the lower extremities. The development of hand lymphostasis is associated mainly with mastectomy.

Typical symptoms of the disease:

severe swelling of the affected limb;
a noticeable increase in the volume of the affected leg or arm;
pain on exertion;
tissue trophism disorders.

The disease greatly impairs the patient's quality of life and is difficult to treat. Initial forms lymphostasis is treated with lymphatic drainage massage and wearing special compression stockings to prevent overstretching of the lymphatic vessels. Severe forms of pathology are not treatable. In these cases, lymphostasis leads to elephantiasis and disability.

Thus, the lymphatic system is an important part of the body, and lymph is its main instrument. Pathologies of the lymphatic system are very dangerous, therefore they require timely treatment. You can check the lymph by a blood test, which doctors recommend taking annually, even in the absence of any symptoms.

To my shame, by the age of 28, I had a vague idea of lymph. I remembered from the school course and heard out of the corner of my ear that there are some The lymph nodes that they expand during diseases, become inflamed, and the lymph itself plays important role in immunity.

Fortunately, I was prompted to conduct an educational program by the release of the program “I am ashamed of my body”, which showed the story of a woman with lymphostasis.

Lymphostasis(lymphedema or in the common people “elephantiasis”) is the accumulation of protein-rich fluid in the body due to disruption of the lymphatic system. Malfunctions in the work of drugs can be both congenital and acquired (burns, mechanical surgical injuries of the lymphatic vessels). The disease manifests itself in the form of persistent progressive edema, tissue thickening, ulcers and cracks in the skin. It is not uncommon for lymphedema to occur in people with kidney, venous, and/or heart failure, but most often as a complication after breast cancer treatment.

To say that I was shocked, discouraged is to say nothing. Looking ahead, this is a story with a happy ending, so I would like to say a huge thank you to all the doctors, people who helped this unfortunate woman. Thank you for being.

UPD Alas, her story of fighting cancer is not over. A year later, a new sore appeared. More details can be found in the first episode of season 4.

Well, now directly to the lymph. All that I will write now is a retelling, processing of information from different sources by a person without medical education. Simplified, short and, I hope, as clear as possible.

(translated from Latin means “pure moisture”) is a transparent intercellular fluid in which there are no erythrocytes * and platelets **, but many lymphocytes ***. Lymph also contains proteins, waste products of cells, hormones, microorganisms. The so-called ichor in the people, oozing from the wound, is lymph.

* Erythrocytes (red blood cells) - blood cells saturated with oxygen in the lungs, carry oxygen throughout the body.

** Platelets are platelets that play an important role in stopping bleeding due to the formation of blood clots.

*** Lymphocytes are the main cells of the immune system.

Lymph always flows from bottom to top- from the tip of the fingers to the thoracic lymphatic duct.

In total, the body of an adult contains about 1.5 l of lymph, to compare the blood in the body about 5-6l.

An analysis of the state of the lymph can indicate a particular disease before the blood.

Blood makes a complete revolution in the body in an average of 27 seconds, and lymph - 5-6 times a day. This is because the lymphatic system does not have such a powerful pump as the heart. Lymph is stimulated by muscle contractions. That is why nature has located the lymph nodes in areas of special activity, next to the joints. A sedentary lifestyle leads to a slowdown in lymph circulation and, as a result, edema occurs.

lymphatic system

Lymph absorbs the fluid that washes the cells of the body like a river. Microscopic streams of lymph gradually turn into large channels, which then flow into the veins. Immune defenders live in the lymph: lymphocytes and bacteria-eating macrophages.

* The drainage function of drugs is the removal of excess fluid from all organs and tissues into the blood.

Lymphatic vessels end blindly in different tissues, but they are not in the brain, in spinal cord, mucous membranes and hollow organs.

All lymphoid cells are produced in bone marrow, but here they are not trained, does not contain any memory. Learning takes place in the lymph nodes or in the thymus (thymus gland).

In the human body, there are more than five hundred lymph nodes ranging in size from a tiny grain to a large tonsil, for example, the largest lymph nodes are tonsils. Also, the largest lymph nodes are located under the knees, armpits, in the groin.

How the lymphatic system works

The microbe enters the body and is met:

Phagocytes and macrophages* - investigate, break down the bacteria, analyze and move with a report to t-lymphocytes: helpers, suppressors, killers.

* Phagocytes (from the Greek for “to eat”) and macrophages (from the Greek for “big eater”) are cells of the immune system that protect the body by devouring harmful particles or dying cells.

T - cells- These are cells with a higher intelligence, they are able to distinguish not only individual microbes, but also determine whether the organism has met with them before.

The prefix "T-" cells received in honor of the place of their origin - the thymus.

T-killers are cells that kill foreign agents.

T-helper cells are helper cells of the immune system responsible for the division and differentiation of body cells. Also, these cells are responsible for the formation of relationships between two types of immunity (humoral and cellular).

T-suppressors are cells that, if necessary, reduce the activity of T-helpers.

The vast majority of infections are neutralized in the lymph nodes.

In humans and other vertebrates, in addition to the blood vessels, there is another group of vessels that form the lymphatic system. Lymph moves through these vessels - a clear, yellowish liquid.

human lymphatic system

At the confluence of the lymphatic vessels are clusters of cells called lymph nodes, in which white blood cells are formed. These nodes are biological filters. In them, microbes are phagocytosed by leukocytes and other foreign substances that have entered the lymph from the tissues are retained.

Thus, we can distinguish the main functions of lymph:

Return of tissue fluid to the circulatory system;
production of leukocytes;
filtering out bacteria and other foreign substances;
absorption into the lymph of fats in the small intestine;
maintaining the constancy of the internal environment;
the return of protein substances from the tissue fluid to the bloodstream.

Differences from blood plasma

Collected on an empty stomach or after consumption low fat foods, has a transparent color and differs from blood plasma in a lower content of proteins (4 times).
Emulsified fats are absorbed into the lymph from the human intestine, therefore, 6-8 hours after ingestion fatty foods it becomes milky.
Also, unlike plasma, it has a lower viscosity and a low relative density.

Compound

The components of lymph include: proteins, mineral salts, formed elements (leukocytes), Hb, glucose. Among leukocytes, lymphocytes are predominant (up to 90%), monocytes account for 5%, eosinophils 2%. Erythrocytes are normally absent, but with radiation exposure or injury, when the permeability of the vascular wall increases or its integrity is disturbed, red cells can leave the blood into the lymph.

The composition of lymph in different organs is different, which depends on their functions and metabolic processes. For example, in the liver tissue, its composition contains an increased amount of protein, and it flows from the endocrine glands with hormones.

The process of lymph formation

It is characterized by the transition of water and substances dissolved in it from the bloodstream to the tissues, and then to the lymphatic vessels. The capillaries are equipped with a semi-permeable vascular wall with ultramicroscopic pores through which filtration is carried out. The pores have different sizes in different organs, the highest permeability is observed in the liver, so about half of the lymph volume is formed here.

Movement and regulation of lymph formation

Water, dissolved salts, glucose, oxygen easily pass into the tissue fluid. This is due to increased intravascular pressure (hydrostatic). High-molecular substances (plasma proteins) are not able to penetrate the capillary wall, they maintain oncotic pressure and retain water in the channel.

The difference between hydrostatic and oncotic pressure gives the filtration pressure, which ensures the transition of water into the tissue fluid. Some of it goes back into the bloodstream, and some becomes lymph.

Mechanisms of regulation of lymph formation

In a healthy body, the formation of lymph and its outflow are effectively regulated by the vegetative nervous system and humoral factors. They affect blood pressure and regulate capillary permeability.

For example, epinephrine and norepinephrine increase pressure in the vessels, which increases the filtration processes and the release of fluid into the interstitial space.

Local regulation is carried out by tissue metabolites and biologically active substances that are secreted by cells.

The movement of lymph in the human body

Lymph diffuses from the tissue fluid into the lymphatic capillaries, which collect into small lymphatic vessels, which gradually form the lymphatic veins. The veins of the lymphatic system, like the blood veins, contain valves that ensure the movement of lymph to the heart.

From the left hand, the left side of the head, the ribs, the lymph through the lymphatic vessels enters directly into the thoracic duct, and then into the veins of the systemic circulation (upper vena cava). The right lymphatic duct receives lymph from right hand, right side of the head, ribs, from it goes to the right subclavian vein. Then, together with venous blood, the lymph flows into the right atrium.

Thus, the lymphatic system serves to return fluid from the intercellular space to the circulatory system, and therefore there are no lymphatic arteries.

The human lymphatic system. Movement scheme

The movement of lymph is carried out due to such processes:

Rhythmic contractions of the lymphatic vessels (about 10 per minute). Due to the presence of valves, current is only possible in one direction.
Sympathetic innervation of the walls of the lymphatic vessels, by spasm and relaxation of certain areas of them.
Facilitates the movement of intrathoracic pressure, which during inspiration becomes negative, the volume of the chest increases, which contributes to the expansion of the thoracic duct.
Walking, flexion and extension movements of the limbs. Up to 3 liters of lymph returns to the bloodstream per day.

Role in the human body

The lymphatic system, which in Latin is called systema lymphatica, in the human body performs important functions and is responsible for maintaining immunity. This essential part vascular system people has a clear structure. The main function of the systema lymphatica is to cleanse the cells and tissues of the body. Each lymph node performs the functions of a biological filter.

What is the lymphatic system

The entire human body is covered by a system of lymph nodes and blood vessels, which ensures the functioning of the immune system. The lymphatic system carries away tissue fluid from the intercellular space. Such a structure is no less important part of the vascular circulation than the venous and arterial systems. The work of the systema lymphatica is clearly not visible.

It is very rare for lymph to leak through the skin, but people always notice the results of the lymphatic system. However, few understand the essence of such a process. This is a complex non-closed structure. It does not have a central pump, so it is different from the circulatory system. The lymphatic system is a whole complex of small and large lymphatic vessels - trunks and ducts, which permeate the entire human body.

Through them, lymph flows from areas of the body to the terminal sections of the veins. About 460 grouped or single lymph nodes in different parts of the body along the lymphatic vessels are present in the human body. Groups of lymph nodes work constantly. They are located next to the veins and arteries. This number of lymph nodes is enough for the human body to feel healthy. These vessels are interconnected by lymph nodes.

Small and large vessels are grouped. These are groups with different lymph nodes. They go to the lymph nodes (lat. nodi lymphatici), ranging in size from a large bean seed to a millet grain. There are 150 regional groups of lymph nodes connected by vessels. Each node is responsible for a specific part of the body. The weight of all lymph nodes is 1% of body weight, up to 1 kg. The lymphocytes needed to fight infection are produced in the lymph nodes.

The lymphatic capillaries form the basis of this system. They are everywhere. These thin capillaries collect fluid in the body that is there. Such a biological fluid contains various useful and harmful toxic substances. These toxins (lat. Toxicum) poison our body, so the lymphatic system collects these substances in the body.

Lymph is a fluid tissue of the body.

Lymph, which is constantly filtered in the lymph nodes, contains a lot of leukocytes. These are active whites blood cells: macrophages, B-lymphocytes, T-cells (lat. Thymus). Such leukocytes tend to absorb various microbes. They must find infectious agents, destroy their toxins.

Platelets and erythrocytes are absent in the lymph. It is constantly formed by filtration of blood plasma. Such a colorless liquid always circulates in this system. In the body of an adult, up to 2 liters of this transparent biological fluid circulate. Lympha moves slowly under slight pressure. Lymph always flows from bottom to top. This biological fluid slowly carries tissue fluid from the fingers of the lower extremities to the thoracic lymphatic duct. Only in this direction can the lympha collect everything superfluous in the body and bring it out.

Lymphatic capillaries have special valves that prevent backflow of lymph. Lympha is engaged in the purification of blood in the human body. However, sometimes these valves in humans are destroyed, and the flow of lymph slows down. With an infectious process, the elbow lymph nodes become inflamed on the hand. In these situations, swelling of the limbs occurs.

This indicates damage to the lymphatic vessels. How does lymph move? Microcirculation processes determine the volume and rate of lymph formation. When there is obesity, or a person is sitting for a long time, the movement of the lymph is minimal, since there is practically no active physical movement. If a person moves vigorously, the muscles actively contract. Lymph is pumped to the next lymphangion.

Significance of the lymphatic system

The structure of the lymphatic system

What is the location of the lymph nodes? The structures of the systema lymphatica are not able to remove toxins, poisons through skin covering. In our body there are such organs with a mucous membrane. A group of lymph nodes releases these toxins to a specific area in order to remove poisons through the mucous membranes. Since the systema lymphatica works from the bottom up, the first area of lymphatic evacuation is the mucous membranes of men and women.

Functioning

Lymph nodes in the abdominal cavity

Patients complain about the appearance of some pathological discharge. Lymphocytes cleanse the vagina, urethra, male genitalia. The femoral triangle consists of lymph nodes in the groin. The destruction of microbes is accompanied by inflammation. Deep lymph nodes are compressed, the thigh hurts. When toxins are released, the body will be clean.

The second area of evacuation of poisons is the intestines. There are many lymph nodes in the abdomen. If at malnutrition the body is poisoned, the lymph nodes remove toxins through the lymph nodes located in the intestines. AT chest and the abdominal cavity there is a group of para-aortic lymph node. If you start drinking fixing drugs with diarrhea, these toxins will remain in the affected body.

sweat glands

The sweat glands are another evacuation zone for toxins. Especially a lot of them in the armpits. The person must sweat. However, many people actively use antiperspirants to combat excessive sweating, which close the sweat glands. All poisons remain in this zone. In severe cases, you have to contact the surgeon. If the lymph nodes on the collarbone are enlarged, this may be a sign of a tumor.

Nasopharynx, oral cavity

The nose, the nasal cavity, is an important area for the evacuation of toxicum. Through the nose, pathogens that have entered by airborne droplets are removed. If a person is self-treated, often used vasoconstrictor drops. Instead of removing the pathological contents, the patient leaves microbes in the body. A sign of damage to the system are the symptoms of sinusitis.

In the nasopharynx there is a special lymphoid tissue that captures microbes. staph infection always goes through nasal cavity. If it is not possible to quickly cope with an airborne infection, the adenoids increase. The lymph nodes in the nose swell. If these essential organs are removed, the body's ability to fight infection is reduced.

The collection of lymph in the area of the mouth, teeth, tongue is carried out by the chin lymph nodes. Lymphadenitis is an inflammation of the lymph nodes of the face. Part of the systema lymphatica are salivary glands. Together with the oral fluid, toxins and poisons are carried into the digestive tract for removal from the body. When the jaw lymph nodes are affected, it hurts a lot lower jaw. It is important to make swallowing movements. This stimulates the production of saliva.

inflammation of the palatine tonsils

The palatine tonsils stand guard, protecting the body. This is the place through which the body can remove all the bad. Streptococcus is always excreted through the tonsils. The body is fighting, so there are tonsillitis, rheumatism. But if a person breaks the laws healthy life, palatine tonsils are constantly inflamed.

With the defeat of the lymph nodes on the face, the chin hurts. Tonsillitis develops, the palatine tonsils do not cope with their work. inflamed submandibular lymph nodes get an infection from a lymph node in the face. In the case of tonsillectomy, without extreme necessity, another barrier disappears that protected human health.

The larynx is the next barrier to infection. If the lymphatic system has found microbes and removes them through the larynx, laryngitis develops. In the ear area, the lymph nodes of the face often become inflamed. The next springboard for the evacuation of poisons and microbes is the trachea. There are lymph nodes on both sides of the trachea. Lymphocytes come out of the lymph nodes. When the body tries to remove toxins in this way, tracheitis develops. Virchow's supraclavicular lymph node receives lymph from the abdominal cavity through the thoracic duct.

Bronchi and lungs

The next excretory path of the systema lymphatica is the bronchi. It is an important component of the immune system. The passage of infection further block the lymph nodes with the help of tracheal lymph. The fungus is secreted through the nearest organs. Fungal bronchitis begins if the entire body is affected by the pathogen. If you take cough pills with bronchitis, mucus does not come out of the bronchi. The disease is delayed, the patient's condition worsens. As a result of settling of mycobacteria, inflammation of the intrathoracic lymph nodes often develops.

The lungs are the most important area for the evacuation of various debris from the body. The lymphatic capillaries in the lungs often bear the brunt of the infection. They are called bronchopulmonary lymph nodes. Through the deep and superficial plexuses of the lungs, the respiratory organ is cleansed. Dangerous bacterium enters the area of the lymph nodes. This is where it gets destroyed. In tuberculosis, the intrathoracic lymph nodes are involved in the pathological process.

The cervical group of lymph nodes neutralizes microbes entering the body through the upper respiratory tract and mouth. An increase in the lymph nodes of the neck may indicate the hard work of the systema lymphatica. Non-working lymph nodes in the face often cause severe muscle blocks, as lymph flow is hindered. The sublingual lymph node sensitively reacts to any changes in the body.

Lymphatic system. Video

Complications of the lymph

If the lymphatic system is overloaded, and a new infection enters the body, problems arise. Systema lymphatica puts debris into the skin because the system is clogged with other toxins. Breast cancer can provoke metastases to the subclavian lymph nodes. Through the skin, the body tries to expel the fungus. However, the dense epidermis does not let harmful substances out. There are eczema, psoriasis, neurodermatitis. These are not diseases, but a painful condition, a manifestation of problems with an overloaded lymphatic system. It is necessary to cleanse the body.

cleansing the body

Bad ecology, wrong way of life, low-quality food harm the health of every person. After the age of 30, the body fluids of many people are heavily contaminated. In fat cells, tissues, there can be many kinds of toxins, microorganisms, harmful substances that weaken the immune system.

In conclusion

One of the most important and complex systems in the human body is the systema lymphatica. The lymphatic system works independently of our thinking. Lymph movement is provided by various muscles. Lympha is able to fully function only under the condition of physical activity of a person. After a long sitting position, it is important to actively move. At the same time, normal lymphatic flow is started. As a result, lymph performs its functions in the system. Its task is to catch harmful substances in the body with the help of leukocytes and neutralize them.

Leukocytes find microbes and eat them, dying in the process. Lymph saves the patient at the cost of his own life. A sick person should not interfere with this process, but competently help his body. This can only be done under the guidance of a qualified medical professional.