Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart2h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

20. The Lymphatic System

Lymphatic Vasculature

Anatomy & Physiology

20. The Lymphatic System

Lymphatic Vasculature

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Multiple Choice

After sitting for hours on a long flight where movement is limited, people may experience some swelling in their legs and feet. Which of the following explains this phenomenon?

Smooth muscle is not active, so lymph is not circulated effectively.

Skeletal muscles in the legs and feet are inactive, reducing the rate of lymph flow.

The respiratory “pump” from breathing is not as effective.

The change in air pressure at high altitude significantly disrupts lymph flow, particularly in the lower body.

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of the lymphatic system: The lymphatic system helps in the circulation of lymph, which is a fluid containing white blood cells and waste products. It relies on the movement of skeletal muscles to help push lymph through the lymphatic vessels.

Identify the role of skeletal muscles: Skeletal muscles, especially in the legs and feet, act as a 'pump' to facilitate the movement of lymph. When these muscles contract, they help push lymph through the vessels, aiding in circulation.

Consider the impact of inactivity: During a long flight, passengers often remain seated for extended periods, leading to inactivity of the skeletal muscles in the legs and feet. This inactivity reduces the 'pumping' action necessary for effective lymph circulation.

Evaluate the effect of reduced lymph flow: With reduced muscle activity, the flow of lymph slows down, leading to fluid accumulation in the lower extremities, which can cause swelling in the legs and feet.

Conclude with the correct explanation: The phenomenon of swelling in the legs and feet after sitting for hours on a flight is primarily due to the inactivity of skeletal muscles, which reduces the rate of lymph flow, leading to fluid accumulation.