Diseases of the lymphatic system
There are some situations in which the lymph nodes have to work harder than usual, namely when there are more pathogens, cell debris and/or foreign bodies in the blood and thus also in the lymph. A classic example of this is an infection. When there is increased activity in the lymph nodes, the lymph swells in response.
Since lymph purification takes place first in the lymph nodes, which are the first station in the drainage area, infections in the throat or nose, for example, are mainly associated with swollen lymph nodes in the throat, swollen lymph nodes in the neck and lower jaw. In more serious diseases such as generalized infectious diseases, blood poisoning or malignant processes such as leukemia, lymphomas or other types of cancer, the lymph nodes in the entire body can be enlarged (sometimes massively). If you find swollen lymph nodes that cannot be directly connected to a local event and that persist for a long time, you should consult a doctor to rule out an underlying disease.
One of the diseases that affect the lymphatic system itself is lymphangitis, in which lymph vessels have become inflamed. This is often colloquially referred to as “blood poisoning” and occurs relatively rarely. Lymphangitis can be triggered by pathogens (e.g. bacteria, parasites) that have entered the body, for example through a wound following an injury.
In addition, insect bites, snake bites and also some drugs (such as chemotherapeutics) can be a cause. Since the superficial lymphatic channels are often affected, these become visible as red stripes under the skin. As the inflammation spreads, the stripes move towards the heart.
These stripes represent the inflamed lymphatic channels and are often swollen, slightly warmed and painful. Itchy eczema or blistering in the corresponding skin areas may follow. There is often a general feeling of illness.
Fever, chills and tachycardia (palpitations) may also occur. Therapy depends on the severity of the clinical picture. If immobilization of the affected part of the body, alcohol bandages and anti-inflammatory ointments are not sufficient, antibiotic therapy is administered.
As a rule, the disease is completely cured. However, if not treated adequately, it can take on a chronic course. Another, likewise rare disease is lymphedema.
This can occur if the lymphatic drainage is disturbed. Then the lymph fluid accumulates in the body tissue or collects between the cells. Often the extremities (arms, legs) are affected, which then swell.
This is usually a painless process. In the further course, if no treatment is given, the swelling can develop into fibrosis (increase in connective tissue), whereby the skin becomes rough and thickens over time.If the swelling hardens and does not recede even after putting the legs up, this is called irreversible swelling. In addition, the swelling can lead to nerve damage and a deterioration in blood circulation.
One cause can be the prior removal of lymph nodes (lymph node extirpation). Other organ diseases, venous diseases, cancer diseases and treatments, radiation, infections and genetic defects can also cause damage to the lymphatic system. Lymphedema cannot be eliminated with medication.
Lymph drainage and compression treatments are effective. If the skin is damaged, appropriate skin care must also be carried out. Many more women than men suffer from lymphedema (in a ratio of 9 to 1). The reason for this uneven distribution is not yet known.
