What are the three signs on the hands of people with poor liver health?

Dec 03, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Gao Jun

Introduction

There is no such claim as "three signs on the hands indicating poor liver health." However, individuals with liver problems may exhibit symptoms on their hands such as palmar erythema (liver palms), spider angiomas, nail abnormalities, yellowing of the skin, or hand swelling. These symptoms are often associated with impaired liver metabolism and detoxification functions. If accompanied by fatigue, loss of appetite, jaundice, or similar symptoms, prompt medical attention is recommended.

There is no such claim as "three signs on the hands of people with poor liver health." However, individuals with liver problems may exhibit symptoms on their hands such as liver palms, spider angiomas, nail abnormalities, yellowish skin, and hand swelling. These manifestations are often related to impaired liver metabolism and detoxification functions. If accompanied by symptoms like fatigue, loss of appetite, or jaundice, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Liver palm (palmar erythema): The skin on the thenar and hypothenar eminences of the palm becomes red, temporarily fading upon pressure and quickly returning to redness once released. This occurs due to reduced hepatic inactivation of estrogen, leading to local vasodilation. It is commonly seen in patients with chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis.

2. Spider angioma: A small central red spot appears on the skin of the hand, surrounded by radiating tiny blood vessels. Pressing the central spot causes the entire lesion to blanch. Similar in cause to liver palms, this is one of the typical physical signs of liver dysfunction.

3. Nail abnormalities: Nails may become thin, brittle, prone to cracking, or develop vertical ridges, leukonychia (white nails), or a grayish discoloration. These changes result from abnormal protein synthesis and vitamin metabolism in the liver, which impair nutrient supply to the nail keratin layer.

4. Yellowish skin: The skin of the hands and nail beds appear pale yellow, with color deepening in severe cases. This results from decreased hepatic processing of bilirubin, leading to its accumulation in the body, a common manifestation of jaundice.

5. Hand edema: Symmetrical swelling of the hands with pitting upon pressure, caused by insufficient hepatic synthesis of albumin, leading to reduced plasma osmotic pressure and fluid leakage into tissue spaces. It is often accompanied by lower limb edema.

To maintain liver health, it is important to maintain regular作息 (daily routines), avoid staying up late, quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption to reduce liver burden, follow a light diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, and high-quality proteins, avoid indiscriminate use of medications, engage in moderate exercise, control body weight, and undergo regular liver function tests.

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Can people with liver problems eat dandelion?

Under normal circumstances, individuals with poor liver function can usually consume dandelion, but in moderation. If symptoms do not improve, prompt medical attention is necessary. It should be noted that dandelion has certain medicinal value; therefore, consultation with a physician before consumption is recommended to avoid self-administration or improper combination with other medications. Additionally, regular monitoring is required after consumption, and if any adverse symptoms occur, usage should be discontinued promptly.

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Can people with liver problems eat radishes?

In general, people with liver problems can usually eat radishes. Radishes are rich in dietary fiber, amylase, vitamins, selenium, and other nutrients. The amylase and dietary fiber in radishes can promote gastrointestinal motility, help moisten the intestines and relieve constipation, and to some extent enhance the body's metabolism, thereby improving liver metabolic function.

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How to adjust diet for poor liver health

Under normal circumstances, dietary adjustments for poor liver function include increasing intake of high-quality protein, controlling sugar and fat consumption, reducing fat intake, increasing dietary fiber intake, and limiting salt intake. It is also important to maintain regular eating habits, eat meals at regular times and in appropriate quantities, avoid overeating and prolonged fasting, which helps maintain normal liver function.

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Is eating fish good for people with poor liver function?

In general, it is beneficial for individuals with poor liver function to consume fish in moderation. When eating fish, it is recommended to use light cooking methods such as steaming or boiling, and avoid frying or sautéing. Greasy cooking methods increase the fat content of the food, which can加重 the burden on the liver after consumption and hinder the recovery of liver function.