1. Swelling (in thighs and feet)
What it looks like: Shoes are too tight, sock lines remain; pressing with a finger creates a small indentation that slowly disappears. They usually worsen at night.
Liver related: A damaged liver produces less albumin, a protein that retains fluid in the blood vessels. A deficiency causes edema. Furthermore, portal hypertension disrupts normal venous flow.
2. Vascular “stars” (telangiectasias)
What they look like: Small red or purple “spiderwebs” on the ankles and feet.
Liver-related: Common in chronic diseases like cirrhosis. They are caused by hormonal changes (particularly estrogen) and increased pressure in the veins.
3. Change in skin color
What it looks like: A yellowish tint (mild jaundice) or dark spots (hyperpigmentation), especially around the ankles.
Connection to the liver: Jaundice indicates problems with the breakdown and elimination of bilirubin; hyperpigmentation reflects metabolic disorders and melanin accumulation.
4. Itchy skin
Hoe het voelt: Constant, geen opvlammingen, vaker ‘s nachts.
Levergerelateerd: Kan een van de eerste tekenen van cholestase (galstuwing) zijn. De opgehoopte galzuren irriteren de zenuwuiteinden in de huid.
5. Roodheid van de voeten (plantair erytheem)
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