Lymphatic system
The lymphatic system
A network of vessels, nodes and other organs carries the watery fluid known as lymph from the body’s tissues to the blood stream. A key part of the immune system, its vessels channel lymph in one direction, into larger bodies called nodes. Within them,
mesh-like tissues of white blood cells filter
out and destroy harmful organisms.
The system can also carry cancer cells, so whenever a cancer is removed, nearby lymph nodes are often removed too. Lymphedema occurs when a limb swells because the flow of lymph is blocked and fluid backs up, a common complication of cancer surgery. There is currently no cure, however lymphedema can be managed using diuretic drugs – which remove excess fluid from the body – and with physical therapy including massage, exercises, and compression bandages. In some cases, surgery to remove excess tissue or to attempt to restore the flow of lymph may be necessary.
LABELS:
Spleen
Thymus gland
Lymphatic vessels
Lymph nodes
Blood vessels
White blood cells
Collagenous capsule
Lymph (white arrows)
Text and illustrations by Kevin T. Boyd
Acupressure for edema
Here is a list of acupressure points for Edema on PointFinder.org. You may also want to try finding points for the specific body area experiencing lymphatic issues, using the friendly body browser or the A-Z list of symptoms and body areas.
If this is your first time, please read the instructions. Don’t use acupressure to replace standard emergency procedures or licensed medical treatment. If you are seriously injured or have acute symptoms seek urgent medical treatment.