Leg and Ankle Swelling
Swelling in the lower legs and ankles is a common symptom of liver disease and can be the first indicator for some people. It may be more prominent on one side than the other or affect both legs. The swelling can make it uncomfortable for you to walk or stand for long periods because it puts pressure on your legs and feet.
Bruises may appear around your shins, caused when blood pools while sitting or lying down. Bruising itself doesn’t always indicate liver disease, but if the bruises appear on your calves or shins, this could be a sign that your liver is starting to fail.
As well as swelling in your legs and ankles, you can develop spider veins on your face, hands, and elsewhere. These spider veins look like red or blue lines that branch out from larger blood vessels like the ones in your eyes or nose.
This type of vein problem is usually harmless and only temporary. However, it’s another sign that your liver is struggling to perform its normal functions of removing waste from your blood, processing nutrients, and storing iron. If you have swelling in your lower legs and ankles and spider veins in places like your cheeks or hands, this is a more serious condition that needs professional medical attention.
