What are the symptoms of a diseased liver on the feet?
What is important to know about a diseased liver?
The liver is a vital organ that has many important functions in the body, including:
- Purification of blood from toxins and waste products
- Production of bile that helps in the digestion of fats
- Storage of vitamins and minerals
- Synthesis of proteins and blood clotting factors
Liver disease can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Viruses: Hepatitis A, B and C
- Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can damage the liver
- Fatty liver: Accumulation of fat in the liver can lead to damage
- Autoimmunity: Some autoimmune diseases, such as autoimmune hepatitis, can attack the liver
- Drugs: Some medications can damage the liver
- Genetic diseases: Some genetic diseases can affect the liver
Symptoms of liver disease may include:
- Weariness
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Swelling of the abdomen
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and egg whites)
- Itching of the skin
- Changes in the color of urine and stool
- Bleeding from the intestines
The diagnosis of liver disease is usually made on the basis of:
- Clinical examination
- Blood tests
- Ultrasound of the liver
- Liver biopsies
Treatment of liver disease depends on the cause. Some liver diseases, such as hepatitis A, can go away on their own. Other liver diseases, such as hepatitis B and C, can be treated with medication. Advanced cases of liver disease may require a liver transplant.
Symptoms of diseased liver on the feet:
1. Swelling of the feet, ankles and legs: This is a common symptom of cirrhosis of the liver, an advanced stage of liver damage. Swelling occurs due to the accumulation of fluid in the tissues (edema).
2. Muscle cramps: Although not common, foot and leg cramps may be associated with cirrhosis of the liver. They can be caused by electrolyte disruption or endocrine system dysfunction.
3. Joint pain: Symptoms such as pain in the joints and arms can be a sign of viral hepatitis, inflammation of the liver.
4. Numbness and tingling: Hepatitis C infection or alcoholic liver disease can lead to paresthesia, a feeling of racing, numbness or pricking in the feet and legs.
5. Changes in nail color: Yellow nails can signal liver problems, like jaundice.
6. Red spots on the feet: Petechiae, tiny red spots on the feet, can be a sign of problems with blood clotting, which can occur in the advanced stage of liver disease.
7. Itching in the feet: Itching in the feet can be a symptom of cholestatic liver disease, which affects the biliary system.
8. Changes in foot temperature: Cold feet can be a sign of poor circulation, which can happen with liver problems.
It is important to note that these symptoms are not specific to liver disease and can also be caused by other diseases.
If you have any of these symptoms, it is important that you consult a doctor for a diagnosis.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE SYMPTOMS OF LIVER DISEASE ON THE FEET, WATCH THE VIDEO!