Have you noticed any unusual changes in your legs: nighttime swelling, vascular abnormalities, or itching? These are often attributed to fatigue or age. But did you know that your legs can be an important indicator of your liver health? This organ works tirelessly to neutralize toxins and regulate metabolism. When it starts to malfunction, your legs are often the first to show signs of trouble
Why the legs?
- Severity : blood and fluids accumulate more easily in the lower limbs.
- Circulation : The liver is essential for protein synthesis and the regulation of portal vein pressure. Liver dysfunction directly affects the veins in the legs.
- Metabolism : The liver produces proteins that retain fluid in the blood vessels. In case of deficiency, the fluid “leaks” into the tissues.Early detection kits
- Detoxification : Toxins accumulated due to poor liver function can cause skin reactions.
Warning signs on the legs suggesting liver problems
Swelling (of the thighs and feet)Swelling (of the thighs and feet)
What they look like : shoes feel tight, sock marks persist; when pressed, a dent remains, slowly disappearing. They generally worsen in the evening.
Link to the liver : when the liver is damaged, albumin production decreases, a protein that retains fluid in the blood vessels. Its low level leads to edema. In addition, portal hypertension disrupts normal venous flow.
Vascular “stars” (telangiectasias)
What they look like : small red or purple “spider webs” on the ankles and feet.
Liver connection : often seen in chronic diseases like cirrhosis. Caused by altered hormone metabolism (especially estrogen) and increased pressure in the veins.
Skin color change
What it looks like : A yellowish tint (mild jaundice) or darkening (hyperpigmentation), most often around the ankles.
Link to the liver : Jaundice is a sign of a problem with the breakdown and excretion of bilirubin, and hyperpigmentation is the result of metabolic disturbances and the accumulation of melanin.
Skin itching
What it looks like : Constant, without a rash, more frequent at night.
Liver connection : One of the first signs of bile stasis (cholestasis). Accumulated bile acids irritate the nerve endings in the skin.
