Why Do Liver Problems Give You Itchy Skin?

Liver dysfunction can cause a plethora of symptoms that affect the body. This large organ is responsible for performing hundreds of functions that sustain the body's overall health. The skin is one organ that may be affected by liver problems.

Considerations

• To understand the symptoms of liver problems, you must be familiar with its most significant functions: blood circulation and regulation, vitamin and nutrient distribution, protection and detoxification, production of proteins, metabolism and regulation of hormones.

Abnormal Fat Metabolism

• When the liver's ability to metabolize fat becomes impaired, fat builds up in various body organs, including the skin, where the development of lipomas and fatty tumors may cause itchiness.

Allergic Reactions

• Liver problems harm the immune system and lead to a hindrance of the body's normal protective functions and, in turn, irregular reactions to certain substances. The affected immune system may cause allergic reactions to food, medications and toxic substances, which will cause itchy skin.

Nervous System Effects

• An abnormal liver affects the nervous system, causing physiological changes and overheating of the body, which can lead to external reactions, such as itchy hives.

Hormonal Imbalance

• The liver is responsible for hormone regulation, and when this function is inhibited, the skin may suffer the consequences of itchy irritation, acne, rosacea and inflammation.