“Your lymphatic system helps your body get rid of waste, toxins, and extra fluid. It’s like your body’s drain system”, said Dr. Natalia Hapych, a certified family medicine physician. “But sometimes, this system can get blocked”. When that happens, your body can show clear signs that something isn’t right. Here, we’ll show you how to recognize if your lymphatic system is clogged and ways you can help clear it out.

Common Signs Your Lymphatic System Is Blocked

You Notice Persistent Swelling

Swelling in your arms, legs, ankles, or fingers can mean your lymphatic system is blocked. “It can be difficult to fit into your clothes, jewelry and watches can feel tight,” said Hapych. This happens because fluid isn’t moving properly and gets stuck in one place. You might notice the swelling stays around for days or weeks without going down.

You Feel Tired All the Time

If you’re always feeling tired, even after resting, your lymphatic system might be the problem. When waste and toxins build up in your body, they can drain your energy and leave you feeling very weak and sleepy all day long.

Frequent Illness or Infections

Your lymphatic system helps protect you from germs and illness. But when it’s blocked, germs and toxins aren’t cleared out as they should be, making it easier for you to catch colds, flu, or other infections. You might notice you get sick more frequently, or your illnesses last longer.

You Have Trouble Losing Weight

If you’re finding it hard to lose weight, especially around your belly, it might be because your lymphatic system isn’t working properly. When toxins build up, they can cause swelling and inflammation, making weight loss harder than usual.

Skin Problems

Skin problems like acne, dry patches, itchy rashes, or eczema can signal that your lymphatic system is blocked. When toxins aren’t removed from your body properly, they can irritate your skin and cause these issues.

You Experience Digestive Issues

Bloating, constipation, and stomach discomfort can be signs your lymphatic system isn’t working well. Your digestive system relies on proper lymphatic flow to remove waste effectively. If it’s clogged, digestion can slow down or become uncomfortable.

You Have Joint Pain or Stiffness

When your lymphatic system is congested, toxins can build up in your joints, leading to pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility. You might notice discomfort, particularly after sitting or resting for a while.

How to Clear Out Your Lymphatic System

Drink Plenty of Water

Water helps your body flush out toxins naturally. Usually, drinking about 8–10 cups of water every day keeps your lymphatic system healthy and flowing smoothly.

Exercise Regularly

Exercise moves lymph fluid through your body effectively. Your lymphatic system doesn’t have a pump like your heart does, so activities such as walking, cycling, yoga, or stretching help stimulate lymph fluid flow and prevent blockages.

Try Deep Breathing Exercises

Deep breathing exercises encourage lymph flow by moving your chest and lungs. Slowly breathe in deeply and breathe out fully each day. This practice helps clear lymphatic congestion and boosts overall health.

Use Dry Brushing

Dry brushing involves using a special brush to gently rub your skin before you shower. Brush your skin lightly in upward strokes, moving towards your heart. This helps remove toxins from your body, improves blood flow, and stimulates lymphatic drainage.

Eat Healthy Foods

Eating nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds can help your lymphatic system remove toxins. Avoid sugary, fatty, and processed foods, as they can further clog your system and slow down lymph flow.

Get a Lymphatic Massage

A lymphatic massage gently moves lymph fluid around your body, helping reduce swelling and clear toxins. It’s usually done by professionals trained specifically in lymphatic drainage.

Take Hot and Cold Showers

Alternating between hot and cold water during showers can help stimulate your lymphatic system. Switching temperatures helps your body pump fluids faster and release toxins more efficiently.

Raise Your Legs

If you notice swelling, elevate your legs for about 15–20 minutes every day. Raising your legs helps fluid drain back towards your body, reducing swelling and promoting lymph flow.

Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing

Tight clothing can restrict lymphatic flow. Wearing loose clothes helps lymph fluid move freely throughout your body, reducing the risk of blockages.

Reduce Stress Levels

Stress can negatively impact your lymphatic system. Try stress-reducing activities like meditation, gentle stretching, or hobbies you enjoy. Keeping stress levels low helps maintain healthy lymphatic function.

When to See a Doctor

Generally, these tips can significantly improve your lymphatic health. But if you notice persistent swelling, frequent illnesses, unusual weight gain, or skin issues despite making lifestyle changes, talk to your doctor. They can identify the cause and help you get the appropriate treatment.