Have you noticed unusual changes in your legs, such as nighttime swelling, vascular abnormalities, or itching?
These are often attributed to tiredness 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 fail, the legs are often the first to sound the alarm.
Why the legs?
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Gravity: Blood and fluids tend to pool more easily in the lower extremities.
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Circulation: The liver is essential for protein synthesis and regulating portal vein pressure. Its dysfunction directly affects the veins in the legs
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Metabolism: The liver produces proteins that keep fluid inside the blood vessels. If these are lacking, fluids “leak” into the tissues.
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Detoxification: Toxins accumulated from liver dysfunction 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 tight, sock marks persist; pressing with a finger leaves an indentation that slowly disappears. They usually worsen at night.
Relationship to the liver: A damaged liver produces less albumin, a protein that retains fluid inside the blood vessels. Its deficiency causes edema. In addition, portal hypertension disrupts normal venous flow.
