Sign 6: Itchy Skin
Itchy skin, or pruritus, is another common early sign of liver damage. When the liver isn’t working well, it can’t efficiently filter out toxins. These harmful substances can then accumulate in the skin, leading to itchiness and irritation. It’s not uncommon for people with liver disease to feel particularly itchy on the palms of their hands and the soles of their feet, but it can occur anywhere on the body.
Persistent itching can be incredibly uncomfortable and disruptive, but it’s important to remember that it can be a symptom of many different conditions, not just liver damage. That said, if you’re experiencing persistent itching that’s not explained by other common skin conditions, it may be worth talking to your healthcare provider about the possibility of liver disease. They can perform tests to check your liver function and help determine the cause of your symptoms. (6)
