Difference Between Blood and Lymph

Blood and lymph are both fluid-like substances that are found in the human body. But, is that all about blood and lymph? No, it's not. There's more to their definition. This is discussed in the upcoming sub-sections. So, keep reading and find out! Even if the difference between blood and lymph is your end goal, knowing them better is also important.

Blood

A fluid connective tissue that circulates throughout the human body is called blood. While circulating, blood also works to deliver oxygen, hormones, and nutrients to the body. Alongside it also eliminates the waste products from the body. When it comes to composition, blood has- platelets, red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and plasma. All of them together play a very important role in immune responses, transportation, and also maintaining homeostasis.

Lymph

A clear fluid that's derived from the interstitial fluid is called lymph. The circulation of this fluid is seen in lymphatic vessels. Through this circulation, lymph helps in removing excess fluid, cellular waste, and tissue's foreign particles. Lymphocytes become the composition of lymph. And therefore, is helpful in the functioning of the immune system. Alongside this, it also transports lymphocytes to the lymphoid organs.

Difference Between Blood and Lymph

There are many ways one can differentiate between blood and lymph. To know the blood and lymph difference, go through the table below:

Similarities: Characteristics of Blood and Lymph

To explain blood and lymph, it's important that you understand their similarities. In light of the same, the below points discuss the similarities between blood and lymph:

• Fluid Composition: Both blood and lymph are fluids by composition. 

• Cell's Presence: The two fluids (blood and lymph) are composed of different cells like WBCs. 

• Transport Function: The major role both blood and lymph play is to transport substances throughout the human body. 

• Role in Immune System: Blood and lymph are both involved in the human body's immune response.  

• Oxygenation: They both participate in gaseous exchange. Although, the exchange of oxygen is primarily associated with blood. 

• Circulation: Both the fluids (blood and lymph) circulate all over the body, only their pathways are different. 

• Role in Homeostasis: The overall internal balance of the body is established by the proper functioning of blood and lymph. 

• Waste Removal: Waste products from the tissues are removed with the help of blood and lymph. 

• pH Regulation: pH balance is regulated with the help of blood and lymph. 

• Interaction with Tissues: They (blood and lymph) react with different organs and tissues in the body. 

Conclusion

The circulatory system has two important fluids- blood and lymph. These have many similarities between them, but that's not what makes them unique. Instead, the difference between blood and lymph describes their unique qualities. And the above article discusses the same. Once you are aware of the differences between lymph and blood, your concepts will be clearer and more concise.