Skip to main content

Lymphatic System



The lymphatic fluid, lymph nodes, lymphatic vessels and collecting ducts are just a few of the many parts of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is part of the immune system and is responsible for protecting the body from illness-causing invaders, maintaining body fluid levels and removing cellular waste. 


The lymphatic system is a network of tissues, vessels, and organs that move the lymphatic fluid back into the bloodstream. During this process, it absorbs fats from the digestive tract, and removes waste products and abnormal cells. It also acts as a medium to transport lymphocytes to destroy pathogens. 


Blockages, diseases or infections can affect the lymphatic system. These can lead to many complications involving the lymphatic system. An example would be lymphedema, which was previously discussed. 


To keep your lymphatic system healthy, one should avoid exposure to toxic chemicals, drink plenty of water and also maintain a healthy lifestyle comprising regular exercise and a healthy diet.


Sources:

https://www.britannica.com/science/lymphatic-system

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/21199-lymphatic-system

https://biologydictionary.net/lymphatic-system/



Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Kidney Stones

Renal calculi, or kidney stones is the formation of crystals in the kidneys causing excretory issues. These stones mainly form in the renal pelvis or the ureter in the kidney. It is accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and a burning sensation when urinating  Urine consists of salts and various compounds such as Calcium, Potassium, Sodium, Oxalate, Phosphate and Uric acid. Calcium oxalate is the most common stone formed in the kidneys, it accounts for 80% of kidney stones The crystals can scratch the walls of the urinary tract, sending nerve impulses to the brain causing excruciating abdominal pain. The scratches also cause blood vessels embedded behind the walls to burst, causing blood to enter the urinary system. This causes the patient to urinate blood. IF the stone is big enough to cause a blockage in the urinary tract, this can create a backflow of urine and infect the kidneys itselves. However, most kidney stones do not grow large enough to cause a blockage. This w...

Horner’s Syndrome

Horner’s syndrome is a condition where the sympathetic nerves on the face are damaged. 3 classic signs of Horner’s syndrome include miosis (constriction of the pupil), ptosis (drooping of the upper eyelid) and anhidrosis (absence of sweating of the face). It is a result of other medical problems such as stroke, tumor or spinal cord injury. Hence, treatment for the underlying issue may restore nerve function. The nerve pathway affected in Horner’s syndrome is divided into three groups of neurons called the first, second and third order neurons. These neurons lead from the hypothalamus of the brain through the spinal cord and finally along the facial skin and muscles of the iris and eyelids  Sources: https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/6670/ horners-syndrome

Organ Transplants

  Organ transplantation is a medical procedure in which an organ is removed from one body and planted in the body of a recipient. It is often the only treatment for end stage organ failure, such as liver and heart failure.  Researchers have historically experimented with organ transplantation on animals and humans since the 18th century. However, the first major breakthrough was made in 1954, when the first successful kidney transplant was performed. Since then, medical breakthroughs such as tissue typing and immunosuppressant drugs have only increased the success rate of this procedure.  In Singapore, the Human Organ Transplant Act (HOTA) covers all aged 21 and above, unless one has opted out. HOTA allows for the kidneys, heart, liver and corneas to be removed for transplantation in the event of death. Sources: https://optn.transplant.hrsa.gov/learn/about-transplantation/history/ https://www.moh.gov.sg/policies-and-legislation/human-organ-transplant-act https://www.who.i...