capillary exchange Flashcards
What is capillary fluid exchange?
refers to the process where substances such as oxygen, nutrients, and waste products are exchanged between blood within the capillaries and the surrounding tissues.
How does capillary fluid exchange occur?
occurs through the thin walls of capillaries, which allow small molecules like oxygen and nutrients to diffuse out of the bloodstream into the interstitial fluid, while waste products move from the tissues into the capillaries.
What is interstitial fluid?
is the fluid found in the spaces between cells in tissues. It contains water, nutrients, gases, and other substances that are exchanged between the bloodstream and the cells.
Why is interstitial fluid important?
delivers nutrients and oxygen to cells while removing waste products. It also helps maintain the balance of electrolytes and provides a medium for the exchange of substances between blood vessels and tissues.
How does lymph flow relate to capillary fluid exchange?
Lymph flow is closely related to capillary fluid exchange as it helps return excess fluid and proteins from the interstitial spaces back into the bloodstream via the lymphatic system.
What is the role of the lymphatic system in fluid balance?
collects excess interstitial fluid, known as lymph, and returns it to the bloodstream, thus helping to maintain fluid balance in the body.
How does lymph move through the body?
Lymph moves through the body via a network of lymphatic vessels, propelled by factors such as muscle contractions, breathing movements, and one-way valves within the lymphatic vessels themselves.
What happens if lymph flow is impaired?
Impaired lymph flow can lead to swelling (edema) in the affected area due to the accumulation of excess fluid. It can also impair the immune system’s ability to remove pathogens and toxins from the body.
How can one promote healthy lymph flow?
Practices such as regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, elevating limbs, avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, and gentle massage can help promote healthy lymph flow.
What are some common conditions associated with disrupted lymph flow?
Conditions such as lymphedema, which involves swelling due to impaired lymphatic drainage, and lymphadenopathy, which is the enlargement of lymph nodes often due to infection or cancer, are associated with disrupted lymph flow.
