New Delhi: The liver is a vital organ that performs over 500 functions in the body, including digestion, blood cleaning, immune support, and blood clotting. When the liver is unable to carry out these functions, it may exhibit warning signs indicating potential damage.

Experts suggest that the signs of liver damage can vary from person to person. However, some of the most alarming symptoms of liver issues include foot pain and swelling.

According to medical professionals, when the liver fails to function properly, it can lead to the accumulation of excess fluid and toxins in the lower body, resulting in peripheral edema (PE). This condition causes pain and inflammation in the feet due to the accumulation of fluid in the interstitial space, exceeding the limits of lymphatic drainage.

If left undiagnosed or untreated, this condition can progress to liver scarring or cirrhosis. While peripheral edema is commonly observed in older adults and pregnant women, it can affect individuals of any age and may impact one or both legs. Sudden and painful onset of PE should prompt immediate medical attention.

Experts advise seeking medical help if the feet appear swollen and puffy, feel heavy, achy, or stiff, are bruised or discolored from an injury, exhibit pitting, hinder walking, make it difficult to put on stockings or shoes, or cause weight gain due to fluid retention.

In addition to foot pain and swelling, other unusual signs of liver problems include loss of appetite. Liver failure can lead to poor digestion and increased toxins in the blood, resulting in nausea and decreased appetite. It is explained that in cases of liver failure, the hormones that control hunger, such as leptin and ghrelin, suffer an imbalance, causing a decrease in appetite.