Lymph is primarily used to carry waste products, germs, and damaged cells away from the body's tissues. This fluid travels through a network of lymph vessels, similar to blood vessels, and plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance and immune defense within the body.
Lymph's functions can be summarized as follows:
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Waste Removal: Lymph collects waste products from cells and tissues, ensuring that these byproducts are transported away for processing and elimination.
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Germ Transportation: Lymph transports germs and pathogens to the lymph nodes, where immune cells can identify and neutralize these threats.
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Damaged Cell Clearance: Lymph helps clear damaged or dead cells from tissues, contributing to tissue repair and overall health.
Lymph vessels are the pathways through which lymph travels. They form a network that extends throughout the body, ensuring that all tissues are effectively drained. The lymph nodes act as filters along these vessels, trapping harmful substances and activating immune responses. This entire system works in concert to maintain a healthy internal environment.
