Your legs are screaming “HELP!”: 5 warning signs from your liver

Circulation: The liver is essential for protein synthesis and regulating portal vein pressure. Its alterations directly affect the veins in the legs.

Metabolism: The liver produces proteins that keep fluid within the blood vessels. If these proteins are lacking, fluids leak into the tissues.

Detoxification: Toxins accumulated due to poor liver function can cause skin reactions.

Warning signs in the legs that suggest liver problems
1. Swelling (in thighs and feet)
What it looks like: Shoes are too tight, sock indentations persist; pressing with a finger causes a depression that slowly disappears. It tends to worsen at night.
Liver-related swelling: A damaged liver produces less albumin, a protein that retains fluid within blood vessels. A deficiency causes edema. Portal hypertension also disrupts normal venous flow.

2. Vascular “stars” (telangiectasias)

What they look like: Small red or purple “cobwebs” on ankles and feet.
Liver-related: Common in chronic diseases such as cirrhosis. They are caused by changes in hormonal metabolism (especially estrogen) and increased pressure in the veins.

3. Change in skin color

What it looks like: A yellowish hue (mild jaundice) or darker areas (hyperpigmentation), especially around the ankles.
Connection to the liver: Jaundice indicates problems with the breakdown and elimination of bilirubin; hyperpigmentation reflects metabolic disturbances and melanin accumulation.