The lymph fluid carries the waste products and destroyed bacteria back into the bloodstream. The liver or kidneys then remove these from the blood. The body passes them out with other body waste, through bowel movements (poo) or urine (pee).
Lymphatic vessels drain fluid called lymph from tissues throughout the body and return the fluid to the venous system through two collecting ducts.
When something disrupts your lymphatic system's process, lymph collects in your arms and legs, making them swell. A massage therapist uses lymphatic drainage massage techniques to move lymph from your tissues to your lymph nodes, which eases the swelling in your tissues.
Lymph enters a lymph node through several afferent lymphatic vessels. It then passes through the cortex, paracortex and medulla of the node, and exits on the opposite side through a single efferent lymphatic vessel.
Place you hand on your collarbone. Move your hand down your chest in half circles toward your underarm. Massage your chest to help reduce swelling. This massage will move the lymph fluid from your neck and chest to your underarm lymph vessels and nodes.
Many have reported that they feel a feeling of tingling or flow of fluid under the skin, much like a small stream. Others report the feeling of being able to breathe deeply for the first time in a while because of the lymphatic flow in the sinuses.
Lymph fluid would build up and cause swelling if it were not drained in some way. Lymph vessels draw up the lymph fluid from around the cells to send it towards the chest. There, lymph fluid collects into a large vessel that drains into a blood vessel near the heart.
In many cases, swelling reduces and then disappears within 2 to 3 weeks once the body has successfully fought the infection. If the problem persists for longer than a couple of weeks, it might warrant a visit to the doctor. Other reasons to visit the doctor include: a lymph node that feels hard or rubbery to the touch.
Lymph is a clear-to-white fluid made of: White blood cells, especially lymphocytes, the cells that attack bacteria in the blood and body tissues. Fluid from the intestines called chyle, which contains proteins and fats.
Acute inflammation, Malignant tumors, Thrombosis and major heart problems are all contraindications to lymphatic drainage massage. Lets look at these one at a time.
Lymphatic drainage massage eliminates excess water, toxins, bacteria, and metabolic waste from the cells of the body. It is known to significantly reduce body pain, which gives you both mental and physical comfort after the treatment.
secondary lymphoedema – caused by damage to the lymphatic system or problems with the movement and drainage of fluid in the lymphatic system, often due to an infection, injury, cancer treatment, inflammation of the limb or a lack of limb movement.
Lymphedema can occur when the lymph system is damaged, which can prevent the lymph fluid from returning to the blood. For people with cancer, the build-up of lymph fluid can be caused by: Cancer surgery, especially when lymph nodes are removed. Radiation therapy that can damage nearby lymph nodes or lymph vessels.
If your limbs are swollen you may experience aching, heaviness, difficulty with movement, repeated skin infections, hard and tight skin, folds developing in the skin, and pitting.
Looking After Your Lymphatic System
Drink plenty of water – Dehydration is one of the most common causes of lymphatic congestion which can further exacerbate existing lymph problems. Drinking sufficient water throughout the day encourages healthy lymphatic function and reduces water retention.
How often should I get a lymphatic drainage massage? It is recommended that you get the series of lymphatic drainage session every three months.
The skin can ooze a clear or yellow fluid, and/or can have a foul-smelling odour. If lymphoedema is left untreated and the swelling gets worse, skin changes may occur - erythema of the affected area and thickening of the skin, which appears as peau d'orange skin and woody oedema.
Even though this type of non-invasive treatment carries many benefits, sometimes patients may feel sick after it. Truth is that the lymphatic massage side effects are normal and usually go away in a day or two.
A lymphatic drainage massage uses pressure applied to key areas to unblock the flow. This technique is completely painless, as constant soft pressure is applied and increased slowly.
Citrus. Citrus fruits aid hydration, carry powerful antioxidants and enzymes, and help cleanse and protect the lymphatic system.