Your lymphatic system, part of your immune system, has many functions. They include protecting your body from illness-causing invaders, maintaining body fluid levels, absorbing digestive tract fats and removing cellular waste. Blockages, diseases or infections can affect your lymphatic system’s function. Show
OverviewThe lymphatic system is a network of tissues, vessels and organs that work together to move lymph back into your your bloodstream. The lymphatic system is part of your immune system.What is the lymphatic system?The lymphatic system is a network of tissues, vessels and organs that work together to move a colorless, watery fluid called lymph back into your circulatory system (your bloodstream). Some 20 liters of plasma flow through your body’s arteries and smaller arteriole blood vessels and capillaries every day. After delivering nutrients to the body’s cells and tissues and receiving their waste products, about 17 liters are returned to the circulation by way of veins. The remaining three liters seep through the capillaries and into your body’s tissues. The lymphatic system collects this excess fluid, now called lymph, from tissues in your body and moves it along until it's ultimately returned to your bloodstream. Your lymphatic system has many functions. Its key functions include:
### AnatomyWhat are the parts of the lymphatic system?The lymphatic system consists of many parts. These include:
The lymphatic system collects excess fluid that drains from cells and tissue throughout the body and returns it to the bloodstream, which is then recirculated through the body.
Conditions and DisordersWhat conditions affect the lymphatic system?Many conditions can affect the vessels, glands, and organs that make up the lymphatic system. Some happen during development before birth or during childhood. Others develop as a result of disease or injury. Some common and less common diseases and disorders of the lymphatic system include:
Other disorders include:
CareHow can I keep my lymphatic system healthy?To keep your lymphatic system strong and healthy, you should:
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhen should I call my doctor about an issue with my lymphatic system?Call your doctor if you experience fatigue (extreme tiredness) or have unexplained swelling that lasts more than a few weeks or interferes with your daily activities. How will my doctor test my lymphatic system?To see if your lymphatic system is working as it should, your doctor may use imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI. These tests allow your doctor to see blockages in your lymphatic system. Get useful, helpful and relevant health + wellness information
enews More health news + infoWhat are the 2 functions of the lymphatic system?It produces and releases lymphocytes (white blood cells) and other immune cells that monitor and then destroy the foreign invaders — such as bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi — that may enter your body. Transports and removes waste products and abnormal cells from the lymph.
What is the main function of the lymphatic system quizlet?What is a major function of the lymphatic system? Transport excess fluid away from interstitial spaces in most tissues and return it to the blood stream.
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