Your
lymphatic system
plays a large role in immune function and circulation.
It
consists of lymph vessels
located just under the skin, meeting up with lymph nodes
located in your neck, armpits, and groin area. As the
lymph vessels move fluid out of the tissues, waste products,
bacteria,
dead cells, and large protein molecules are collected.
The waste products are carried to the lymph nodes to
be broken
down and eliminated, while the protein rich fluid is
transported back to the heart to rejoin circulation. |
 |
When
the lymph vessels are unable to transport
lymph fluid back into circulation it accumulates, resulting
in swelling and thickening of the skin. This build-up of
protein-rich lymph fluid is known as lymphedema. Once this
condition occurs, the swelling may increase if an effective
treatment program is not initiated. |
