What does a Lymphatic system do anyway?

Wishing well - Cancer Support group.

As part of Lymphatic Cancer Awareness day we are exploring how little we really know about this very important system. I only investigated it when my mum was first diagnosed with Lymphoma in 2010. After much searching I found it was one of the most important parts of our bodies and this is what I found out. Within our body we have a network called the lymphatic system consisting of paths ways which are connected to nodes. There are lots of technical terms for this that I don't remember and there are much better sites out there for very technical analogies. 

This system helps to protect, clean and filter waste products in our blood, keep infection at bay and retain our fluid balance just right. Quite important, no? In the case of Lymphoma cancer a node may stop working properly for no reason and then in that part of the body it can become susceptible to cancerous cells. Unfortunately there is very little we know in the way of lifestyle to reduce this risk apart from the obvious of having a healthy diet. However, studies have shown that simple changes that lowering or eliminating chemicals from toiletries has been effective. A good example of this is changing a moisturiser or deodorant to a mineral based product. Another useful tip is brushing the skin with a light skin brush after washing to give your lymphatic system an extra boost. But on the whole this cancer, like all the others, is just hit or miss who it chooses to target.

In other areas we can develop swellings, upper respiratory infections, tissue infections or even Lymphedema. All these symptoms all lead to a blockage or excess fluid in the system. This fluid can collect in one area so if you have one limb or area of the body bigger than another and it looks swollen you should always seek medical help. For most it will go away quite quickly with a trip to the doctors but for others they are stuck with large debilitating swollen limbs. Lymphedema can be either congenital or acquired and usually occurs after surgery. Having these swellings can be quite a harrowing experience but don't despair as there are many massage specialist who are qualified in lymphatic drainage. 

Lymphatic drainage uses a stroking technique to gently assist fluid to disperse out of the area affect and then from the body. It can help with the uncomfortable feeling of swollenness and pain relief. Massage therapists qualified in this technique will take a full history and although it is rarely a cure it can go a long way in relieving the majority of symptoms. If you are interested further please look at some of our links or contact our massage therapist Marie Holmes on 01297 22746 / 07769652725 or email marie@headbodyandsole.com and she will be very happy to discuss treatments.