4. Easy Bruising on the Legs

If your legs are constantly covered in bruises—even from very light contact—it may point to impaired blood clotting due to liver disease.

Why It Happens

The liver produces clotting factors.

Liver damage reduces these factors.

Vitamin K absorption may also be impaired.

As a result, small injuries cause large, dark bruises, especially on the calves and thighs.

5. Darkened or Discolored Skin on the Legs

Some liver conditions cause patches of dark brown, gray, or bronze skin on the legs.

Possible Causes

Iron overload (hemochromatosis)

Hormonal imbalance

Toxin buildup in the bloodstream

This discoloration often appears gradually and is more noticeable on sun-exposed parts of the legs.

6. Muscle Wasting and Thin Weak Legs (Late-Stage Cirrhosis)

One of the most alarming signs of advanced liver failure is severe muscle loss, particularly in the thighs and calves. This can occur even in people whose abdomen appears swollen with fluid (ascites).

Why It Happens

The failing liver cannot process protein correctly.

The body begins breaking down muscle for energy.

Chronic inflammation accelerates muscle loss.

What You May Notice

Difficulty standing from a seated position

Weak grip and unstable walking

Dramatic thinning of the legs

This finding is typical of end-stage liver disease and signals urgent medical danger.