Lymphedema: How Blockage of Lymphatic Vessels Impacts the Body

The lymphatic system forms part of the body immune system and therefore crucial in the body immune system. Lymphatic vessels aid in the transport of lymph fluid in the body and consequently a blockage result inability of the lymphatic vessels to carry lymph fluid from tissues. The resulting swelling due to the localization of the fluid is referred to as lymphedema. Lymphedema mostly affects a single arm or leg, but certain situations have been reported to in both limbs.

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Lymphedema can be categorized as primary or secondary. Primary lymphedema is characterized by anatomical abnormalities in the lymph vessels. Three forms of primary lymphedema include congenital lymphedema which is evident at birth (Dayan, Kataru & Mehrara, 2018). Lymphedema praecox is the most common, and it is present after birth and before the age of 35. Meige disease also known as lymphedema tarda is presented after 35 years of age.

On the other hand, secondary lymphedema is caused by identifiable damage or obstruction of the lymph vessels or the nodes in the normal functioning state. In some cases, filariasis (a parasitic infection) from Wuchereria bancrofti has been attributed to causing lymphedema (Dayan et al., 2018). In addition, women with a history of breast cancer surgery and subsequent radiation treatment record lymphedema.

Treatment for lymphedema is focused on reducing the swelling and pain management since there is no substantial cure for the condition. Treatment approaches include exercises, wrapping of the leg or arm, massage, pneumatic compression, compression of garments and complete decongestive therapy (CDT). Light exercises encourage drainage of the lymph fluid while wrapping of the limb encourages flow back of lymph fluid back to the trunk. Manual lymph drainage massage promotes the flow of the lymph fluid out of the leg (Rockson, 2016). Pneumatic compression exerts pressure on the limb and allows for movement of lymph fluid away from the \affected part. A compression garment also plays a similar role, and at times it is recommended during exercising. Complete decongestive therapy combines therapy along with changes in lifestyle. It is highly recommended in people with high blood pressure, paralysis, heart failure, blood clots, diabetes, and acute infections.

Regulation of the Respiratory System in Adjusting Blood pH

Deviation of the blood pH from the normal range, the respiratory system is stimulated to restore the respiratory rate to restore the carbon dioxide component in the bloodstream. Chemoreceptors detect the levels of carbon dioxide and alter the respiratory rate. The alteration of the respiratory rate is facilitated by peripheral chemoreceptors located in the carotid sinus as well as the aortic arch and signal the brain through the cranial nerves to adjust the respiratory rate (Guyenet & Bayliss, 2015). A rise in carbon dioxide leads to diffusion of the gas into the cerebrospinal fluid where it is converted to bicarbonate and hydrogen ions by the aid of carbonic anhydrase enzyme. Chemical chemoreceptors directly alter the respiratory rate by sensing the presence of hydrogen ions. Respiratory alkalosis and respiratory acidosis aid in balancing the level of gases in the respiratory system. According to Guyenet & Bayliss (2015), respiratory alkalosis involves too fast or too deep breathing leading to the drop of carbon dioxide to low levels while respiratory acidosis is initiated when blood becomes too acidic.

References

Dayan, J. H., Ly, C. L., Kataru, R. P., & Mehrara, B. J. (2018). Lymphedema: pathogenesis and novel therapies. Annual review of medicine, 69, 263-276.

Rockson, S. G. (2016). Lymphedema. Vascular Medicine, 21(1), 77-81.

Guyenet, P. G., & Bayliss, D. A. (2015). Neural control of breathing and CO2 homeostasis. Neuron, 87(5), 946-961.