"Why Does Leg Swelling Occur in Liver Cirrhosis?"

Leg Edema in Cirrhosis Patients

Leg edema in cirrhosis patients may be caused by hypoproteinemia, portal hypertension, and inferior vena cava return obstruction, among other factors. It is recommended to promptly seek medical attention and receive targeted treatment under medical guidance. Here are the main causes:

1. Hypoproteinemia

The liver is one of the main organs for synthesizing albumin. When liver disease occurs, it can lead to insufficient protein intake or excessive consumption, resulting in malnutritional hypoproteinemia. This, in turn, reduces the colloidal osmotic pressure in the blood, causing water to seep from the blood vessels into the tissue spaces, manifesting as ascites and edema in both lower limbs.

2. Portal Hypertension

As cirrhosis progresses, hypersplenism may develop, accompanied by esophageal and gastric variceal bleeding. This can induce massive upper gastrointestinal bleeding, potentially endangering life safety. Therefore, it is crucial to actively cooperate with doctors in controlling disease progression through medications such as entecavir dispersible tablets or tenofovir alafenamide fumarate tablets, antiviral drugs, and surgical resection if necessary.

3. Inferior Vena Cava Return Obstruction

Significant right heart failure during illness may impair normal blood circulation, affecting multiple bodily functions and potentially causing symptoms like dyspnea, chest tightness, or shortness of breath. Diuretics like furosemide injection or hydrochlorothiazide tablets can help promote fluid excretion. Additionally, aspirin enteric-coated capsules and warfarin sodium tablets can be prescribed to prevent cerebral infarction.

Besides these common causes, kidney disease may also be involved. Visiting a nephrology department at a reputable hospital for a comprehensive examination can help confirm the diagnosis and adopt appropriate measures to alleviate symptoms.