WHAT IS LYMPH: A BASIC BREAKDOWN

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WHAT IS LYMPH?

The fluid found between the cells throughout the body needs to be drained.  This is done by the blood vessels and the lymph vessels.  When fluid between the cells is drained into the lymphatic vessels it is called lymph.  Lymph is fluid that is rich in protein and assists in removing excess fluid, proteins and bacteria from the cells in the body.

DO YOU GET DIFFERENT TYPES OF LYMPH?

The make up of lymph differs depending on where in the body it is found.  Lymph that is found in the intestine is high in fat and is known as Chile.  It is a creamy colour due to the high amounts of fat.  Lymph that has moved through a lymph node will usually contain more white blood cells, while lymph that has not yet entered a lymph node contains more bacteria.

WHAT IS A LYMPH NODE?

A lymph node is a small filter.  All lymph has to travel through a lymph node before it is returned to the bloodstream.  Lymph nodes form an important part of the immune system.  White blood cells are found inside lymph nodes and assist in fighting bacteria and other foreign bodies that are taken to the lymph node though the lymph.

WHERE ARE THE LYMPH NODES?

Lymph nodes occur all over the body, with the most nodes centralized in the armpit, groin and neck.

What, when and how of lymph drainage?

Lymph drainage is natural process in the body.  It is the bodies way of getting rid of excess fluids, proteins and bacteria that cannot be drained by the blood vessels.  When the body is unable to drain this fluid by itself, there is a build up of fluids and bacteria that requires external assistance in order to drain.  This can happen in any part of the body, but is most often seen in the arms, legs, face, neck and genitals.  This fluid can then be removed the Complete Decongestive Therapy.

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