Your Legs Are Screaming “HELP!”: 5 Warning Signs from Your Liver
5 Warning Signs on Your Legs That May Signal Liver Problems
1. Swelling (Thighs, Ankles, or Feet)
What it looks like: Shoes feel tight, sock marks remain visible, and when you press the skin, a small dent stays for a few seconds. Swelling usually worsens in the evening.
Liver connection: Damaged liver cells produce less albumin, a key protein that helps maintain fluid balance. Low albumin levels allow fluid to seep into tissues, leading to edema. In addition, portal hypertension (increased pressure in the portal vein) disrupts normal venous return, contributing to swelling.
2. Vascular “Stars” (Telangiectasias)
Liver connection: These are often seen in chronic liver diseases such as cirrhosis. They result from altered hormone metabolism (especially estrogen) and increased venous pressure.
