What is the role of lymph in our body?
The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs that help rid the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials. The primary function of the lymphatic system is to transport lymph, a fluid containing infection-fighting white blood cells, throughout the body.
The lymphatic system primarily consists of lymphatic vessels, which are similar to the circulatory system's veins and capillaries. The vessels are connected to lymph nodes, where the lymph is filtered. The tonsils, adenoids, spleen and thymus are all part of the lymphatic system.
Lymph helps to destroy potentially dangerous bacteria and cancer cells and filter waste and toxins. It is also responsible for working with the circulatory system to help deliver hormones and nutrients to the tissues of the body.
The lymphatic system, which is responsible for lymph flow is a series of vessels and nodes, distributed throughout the body. When this system is disrupted by the destruction of lymph nodes or vessels, swelling can occur. This is called lymphedema and is a common problem for women who have had mastectomy with lymph node removal for breast cancer.