Amazing Facts about the lymphatic system
The lymphatic system is like defence system which protects the body from invader microorganisms which cause infection and disease. It also maintains fluid balance and removes toxins from our bodies.
Human lymphatic system consists of a network of tissue and organs that help rid our bodies of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials. This system plays an important role in the immune functions of our body.
The spleen and thymus are important lymphatic organs. The spleen acts as a blood filter. If it detects potentially dangerous microorganisms, it starts producing infection-fighting blood cells known as lymphocytes which act as defenders against invaders and stop the infection from spreading.
Thymus stores growing lymphocytes and get activated in it. The network of lymphatic vessels is distributed throughout our body and carries a clear and colorless fluid called lymph. It is this lymphatic fluid that carries lymphocytes to the site of infection. When microorganisms enter the body, the lymphocytes get activated. Activated lymphocytes produce antibodies to kill microorganisms.
The lymphatic system also acts as a body's drainage system. It collects and returns excess fluid that is surrounding the body's tissues and organs to the bloodstream. If the lymphatic system do not drain this excess fluid. It would build up in the body and cause swelling known as lymphedema. This system also absorbs fats and fat-soluble vitamins from the digestive system and delivers these nutrients to the cells of the body where they are used.
The lymphatic system also helps in removing toxins and other impurities from the body; such as carbon dioxide, sodium, excess minerals, and nutrients. The system disposes of it through perspiration (sweating), urine, and breathing.
Recent research shows that the human brain also contains lymphatic vessels specifically, in the dura which is the outermost membrane that surrounds the brain. These lymphatic vessels pick up fluid from the inner compartment of the brain and drain the fluid out through the lymphatic system.
Credit: Standford School of Medicine, University of Westminister, Stephane Vignes/Wiki, Jerome Bellanger/Wiki
References:-
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3572233/
2. https://www.nature.com/subjects/lymphatic-system
3. https://www.livescience.com/26983-lymphatic-system.html
References:-
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3572233/
2. https://www.nature.com/subjects/lymphatic-system
3. https://www.livescience.com/26983-lymphatic-system.html