Discover How Lymph Nodes Are Related to Pain and Swelling

Your lymph nodes are a small structure that looks similar to a bean and are connected to each other via the lymph vessels. Lymph nodes tend to be in clusters, you will find them in your neck, under your arms, abdomen, chest, and even your groin. 

Lymphatic fluid travels through the lymph vessels connecting the nodes. The main purpose of this system in your body is to carry lymphocytes around your body. These are generally referred to as white blood cells and are essential in your body’s response to infection and disease. 

The lymph nodes and associated system are a key part of your recovery process after illness and surgery. That is why you will find most surgeons discuss them and even a good physiotherapist will be interested in them.

In fact, if you are recovering from an illness or trauma locating a good physiotherapist near me should be considered an essential part of your recovery process. The physio will help you recover faster and can monitor your lymph nodes for you.

Additional Functions Of the Lymph System

You would think carrying white blood cells around your body would be enough. But, the lymph system also acts like the drainage system on a street. All the toxins and waste products in your blood drain into your lymph system and are carried away, to be eliminated. 

It also helps your body by carrying healthy fats from your food around your body and even maintains your fluid level. In fact, issues with your lymph system often result in bloating due to water retention, simply because the system isn’t working properly. 

In short, whenever you are in pain or experience swelling o any other type of trauma, the lymph system is involved. It rushes white blood cells to any area that may be experiencing an infection. It is also responsible for swelling around an injury as the fluid collects, forming a pocket that protects the area from further impact.

Assessing Your Lymph System

Most of the time you are unaware of the work your lymph system is doing. However, if you are struggling to recover from an illness or seem to become ill more often this could be a sign of a lymph issue. You may also find that you have a lower pain threshold and, if you press on an area with a lymph node it will feel painful, hard, and raised. 

When this happens your doctor will want to perform additional tests to assess your circulation. Poor circulation is generally linked to lymph issues 

Repairing The Lymph System

Your lymph system reacts every time you experience pain, illness, or even swelling. This can exhaust the lymphatic system and increase the occurrence of pain and swelling.

Fortunately, anything that is good for your circulation is also good for your lymph system. That means indulging in a little more exercise. It is important to speak to your doctor regarding the best path forward as they know your medical history and existing conditions.