6. Uncomfortable Swelling in the Legs, Ankles, and Abdomen
As liver damage progresses, it dramatically increases the blood pressure within the primary vein carrying blood to your liver—a condition known as portal hypertension. This intense pressure forces clear fluid to leak out of your blood vessels and pool in other areas of your body. Gravity naturally pulls this excess fluid down into your feet, ankles, and lower legs, causing tight, uncomfortable swelling known as edema. In more severe cases, fluid also rapidly accumulates directly within your abdominal cavity, creating a tight, heavily distended belly called ascites. This fluid retention makes walking difficult and places dangerous stress on your aging heart.
