Keep your flow going

The lymphatic system is a heavy hitter! It shoulders a large burden for your body, playing a crucial role in your immunity and keeping you healthy. A healthy lymphatic system will:

• Maintain healthy fluid levels in your body
• Remove cellular debris and other harmful substances from your tissues
• Help your body to absorb fats and other molecules
• Filter out bacteria
• Produce white blood cells called lymphocytes which create antibodies

When your lymph system is flowing sluggishly, these important functions can be affected. It can also be a sign of lymphedema, a chronic condition. 

But how do you know that your lymphatic system is struggling?

Here are a few early signs:

Swelling/edema

Occasional swelling is normal: when it’s very hot, when you’re injured, when you’ve been sitting still for too long or have consumed too much salt. Some medications can even cause swelling! However, an abnormal amount of swelling with no discernible reason for it can be an indicator of lymphatic issues. Monitor for unexplained and persistent swelling in specific body parts.

Catching a condition such as lymphoedema early and employing techniques such as manual lymphatic drainage (lymphatic drainage massage and use of the lymphatic pump) can help to manage fluid buildup and prevent progression of the disease.

Heaviness and tightness

A build-up of lymphatic fluid due to poor flow often results in a limb feeling heavy or joints feeling tight and restricted. This might be accompanied by an ache in the affected area. If you have body parts that are feeling sluggish or restricted, lymphatic drainage issues could be the culprit—particularly in conjunction with another symptom.

Frequent infections

Because the lymphatic system plays an important part in immunity, draining toxins and transporting white blood cells to fight pathogens, infections can become more common when it’s not at its best. Additionally, an accumulation of protein-rich and stagnant lymph fluid is a breeding ground for bacteria

Brain fog and fatigue

Lymphatic issues can affect you mentally as well as physically. A congested lymphatic system means your body has to work harder for immune function and is less efficient at clearing out wastes and toxins, which can result in tiredness, trouble concentrating, and memory problems.

Change in skin texture

Impeded lymphatic flow can cause changes to your skin texture, so be on the lookout for skin that feels harder or thicker. This is called fibrosis, and is part of the natural progression of lymphoedema. Skin infections like cellulitis may also become more common with lymphatic issues.

Don’t miss the signs!

Starting manual lymphatic drainage treatments early can prevent symptoms from worsening and enable you to manage the progression of lymphoedema. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, we recommend seeking medical attention as well as considering lymphatic drainage treatments.

Elemental Body Therapies offers both lymphatic drainage massage and self-administered lymphatic pump sessions, providing those with poor lymphatic flow a variety of options at a range of price points.