Physical Signs of an Alcoholic's Liver

An alcoholic's liver is ultimately a liver that has become quite scarred from an almost perpetual abuse of alcohol. Normally, a liver is capable of repairing itself from certain damages inflicted on its structure and composition. But alcohol abuse makes it less and less able to repair the irritation that has taken place.

Bruising

• One of the most common physical signs of an alcoholic's liver will be the formation of bruises on the body. Since the liver isn't working as it should, the individual will bruise easier than normal.

Swelling

• Many people who have an alcoholic's liver will also suffer the physical sign of a certain amount of swelling within the legs.

Fluid Retention

• Another physical sign of an alcoholic's liver will be the retention of fluid within the abdominal region of the body, causing it to become distended or even bloated.

Weight Loss

• An alcoholic's liver can also cause a person to experience the physical sign of a noticeable loss in weight. This partly due to the physical symptoms of the scarring and damage to the liver, prompting a loss in appetite.

Skin Discoloration

• A person with an alcoholic's liver can begin to suffer from a change in the tone of his skin, looking what would best be described as "ill."