If the liver cannot process bilirubin, it accumulates, and the skin and eyes turn yellow, which is a clear warning sign.
7. Itchy skin
Persistent itching without a rash may be due to bile deposits under the skin.
8. Dark urine and pale stools
Unusually dark urine or pale/clay-colored stools indicate a problem with bile flow.
9. Tendency to bruise or bleed easily
The liver does not produce enough clotting factors – bruising or bleeding from minor cuts can occur suddenly.
10. Swelling of the feet and ankles
Water retention (edema) in the lower extremities is caused by changes in blood flow and fluid balance.
11. Confusion, memory problems
In hepatic encephalopathy, toxins enter the brain and manifest as confusion, brain fog, and even personality changes.
12. Varicose veins on the skin
Small red veins that spread like spider veins on the face, chest, or neck indicate a hormonal imbalance due to liver damage.
When should we be concerned?
If you experience even a few of these symptoms at the same time, take action. Don’t attribute them to stress or your age. See a doctor and have your liver function checked. The earlier liver cirrhosis is detected, the more can be done to stop or even partially reverse the damage.
Who is at risk?
