LYMPHATIC

SYSTEM
 The lymphatic system is a vascular network of
tubules and ducts that collect, filter, and return
lymph to blood circulation.
 The primary functions of the lymphatic system
are to drain and return interstitial fluid to the
blood, to absorb and return lipids from the
Digestive system to the blood, and to filter fluid
of pathogens, damaged cells, cellular debris,
and cancerous cells.
PARTS OF THE
LYMPHATIC SYSTEM
LYMPH NODES
 Produce and store cells that fight off infection
and disease . There 600-700 lymph nodes in the
human body.
THYMUS
 The thymus gland is the main organ of the
lymphatic system. Its primary function is to
promote the development of specific cells of the
immune system called T-lymphocytes. (T-
lymphocytes are responsible for cell mediated
immunity, which is an immune response that
involves the activation of certain immune cells to
fight infection. )
 Also produces hormones that promote growth
and maturation.
SPLEEN
 It is the largest organ of the lymphatic system.
Its primary function is to filter blood of damaged
cells, cellular debris, and pathogens
 The spleen also contains efferent lymphatic
vessels, which transport lymph away from the
spleen and toward lymph nodes.
TONSILS

 Tonsils house lymphocytes and other white blood

cells called macrophages. These immune cells
protect the digestive tract and lungs from disease
causing agents that enter the mouth or nose.
BONE MARROW
 Bone marrow is the soft, flexible tissue found
inside bone. Bone marrow is responsible for the
production of blood cells: red blood cells, white
blood cells, and platelets.
LYMPHANGITIS

 Lymphangitis is an inflammation or an infection

of the lymphatic channels that occurs as a result
of infection at a site distal to the channel.
DISEASES OF THE LYMPHATIC
SYSTEM
LYMPHATIC FILARIASIS

 Lymphatic filariasis, commonly known as

elephantiasis, is a painful and profoundly
disfiguring disease.
 Causing temporary or permanent disability.

 The disease is caused by three species of thread-

like nematode worms, known as filariae
LYMPHEDEMA
 A chronic swelling of the limbs caused by the
accumulation of lymph fluid that occurs if the
lymphatic system is damaged or not functioning
properly. While the limbs are typically involved,
the face, neck and abdomen may also be affected.
HODGKIN'S LYMPHOMA
 is a cancer of the lymphatic system, which is part
of your immune system.
 cells in the lymphatic system grow abnormally
and may spread beyond the lymphatic system. As
Hodgkin's lymphoma progresses, it compromises
your body's ability to fight infection.
CASTLEMAN DISEASE
 is a rare disorder that involves an overgrowth
(proliferation) of cells in your body's disease-
fighting network (lymphatic system). Also known
as giant lymph node hyperplasia and
angiofollicular lymph node hyperplasia,
Castleman disease can occur in a localized
(unicentric) or widespread (multicentric) form.
LYMPHOID LEUKEMIA
 Lymphoid leukemia results from an
overabundance of neoplastic white blood cells
(lymphocytes) into the peripheral blood. These
lymphocytes generally develop from the bone
marrow but sometimes they develop in the spleen
as well.
WAYS OF TAKING CARE OF THE
LYMPHATIC SYSTEM
CLEAN UP YOUR DIET TO CLEANSE YOUR
LYMPHATIC SYSTEM.

 A healthy diet produces less waste for your

lymph system to clean up, reducing your chances
of congestion.
 Avoid processed foods that are high in salt, sugar
and preservatives.
 Replace simple sugars and carbohydrates with
whole grains, complex carbohydrates and fruit.
 Identify any food allergies you may have and
avoid eating those foods.
DRINK 8 TO 10 GLASSES OF FILTERED
OR PURIFIED WATER DAILY

 Your body needs to be well hydrated to keep your

lymph system operating properly.

Practice deep breathing from your

diaphragm and through your nose to
keep your lymph fluids moving.
GET REGULAR PHYSICAL EXERCISE
 Jumping up and down on a trampoline or playing
jump rope for 5 minutes a day is great for your
lymph system. Other moderate exercise, such as
walking and stretching, is also helpful if done
regularly.
DEAL WITH STRESS, DEPRESSION AND
OTHER EMOTIONAL ISSUES

 Just like a congested lymph system can lead to

emotional problems, so can the reverse occur.
Sometimes when we are stuck in stress or other
emotional issues, these feelings manifest in
physical problems.
CONSIDER ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES.

 Acupuncture has been found to do wonders for

keeping our lymph system flowing.
 Regular treatment from a massage therapist who
is familiar with lymph drainage massage is a
great way to keep your entire body healthy and
your lymph system running smoothly.
EAT MORE RAW FRUITS ON AN EMPTY
STOMACH

 The enzymes and acids in fruits are powerful

lymph cleanser . Eat them on an empty stomach
for best digestion and maximum lymph-cleansing
benefits .