Liver is an organ of our body that keeps the blood clean, helps in digestion and removes the toxins accumulated in the body. But liver disease progresses slowly and sometimes no specific symptoms are seen in the initial stage.
In such a situation, the body gives small signals, especially in the hands and feet. If these signs are recognized in time, major diseases can be prevented.
Why do liver symptoms appear in hands and legs?
When the liver becomes weak, the bile salts, toxins and fluids present in the blood are unable to come out. These things start accumulating in the skin, veins and hands and feet. Therefore, early signs of liver disease often appear in the hands and feet.
5 big signs visible in hands and feet
Severe and persistent itching in the palms and soles
When the liver gets damaged, bile salts start accumulating inside the body. These bile salts go under the skin and cause severe itching. This itching often occurs more in the palms and soles of the feet and increases significantly at night. Many times the skin starts looking very rough, dry and lifeless. This condition may be an early sign of cirrhosis or a blockage in the liver (cholestasis).
Swelling in hands and feet
When the liver is unable to function properly, the protein balance in the body gets disturbed. Due to this, water starts accumulating in different parts of the body. Its first effect is visible in the hands and feet. There is a feeling of heaviness in the legs, toes start swelling, and shoes start feeling tight. This swelling occurs because the liver is unable to control the extra fluid present in the blood.
Redness of palms (Palmar Erythema)
A very special symptom of liver disease is the red color of the palms. The palms start appearing slightly shiny and pinkish-red. Sometimes it also feels like a slight burning sensation or warmth. This sign appears when hormones and blood flow in the body start working incorrectly, which can be a sign of liver disease.
Veins in arms and legs clearly visible or turn blue quickly
Liver produces blood clotting factors. When the liver becomes weak, blood has difficulty forming clots. Due to this, the blue veins of hands and feet become more clearly visible. Apart from this, even a small injury on the body quickly turns into a bruise. Many times a blue mark is formed even without any injury. This is a sign that the liver is not able to manage the blood properly.
Frequent severe itching all over the body, especially in the hands and feet
When the liver is unable to completely clear the toxins from the blood, these toxins start accumulating in the skin and cause severe itching. It occurs not just in one place but in the entire body, but hands and feet are most affected. The itching persists and there is no relief even by scratching. This can be a serious sign of liver damage.
Don’t take these symptoms lightly!
If you notice signs like persistent itching, swelling in feet, redness of palms, more visible veins, early bruising, then get a checkup done by a doctor immediately. It is important to get Liver Function Test (LFT) done in time.
How to protect the liver?
Reduce alcohol and fried food. Avoid high fat food. Drink 8-10 glasses of water a day to flush out toxins. Walk 20-30 minutes daily. Prevent weight gain so that fatty liver does not form. Get your liver checked from time to time as per doctor’s advice.