What are the first warning signs that cirrhosis of the liver is starting?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Early signs of cirrhosis often include persistent fatigue, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, nausea, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). Some people also notice easy bruising, itchy skin, or swelling in the legs and abdomen. These symptoms can be subtle at first and easy to dismiss, but they signal that the liver may be struggling to function properly.

Because early cirrhosis symptoms overlap with many other conditions, identifying the cause quickly is critical. The sooner you understand what's driving your symptoms, the sooner you can take action to protect your liver and overall health. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you clarify your next steps in just a few minutes—no appointment, no cost, no pressure. It's a smart first move toward getting clear answers and peace of mind.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn if cirrhosis signs need urgent care Discover likely causes of these liver symptoms See whether your symptoms suggest cirrhosis Find OTC relief for cirrhosis-related symptoms Find a liver specialist near you Discover home remedies for liver discomfort Understand if your symptoms point to cirrhosis

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Explanation

Cirrhosis is a condition where the liver becomes scarred and doesn't work well. At the beginning, you might not notice anything wrong because symptoms can be subtle.

Early Signs:

Fatigue: You might feel very tired and not have much energy.
Loss of Appetite: You may not feel hungry or might lose weight without trying.
Jaundice: This is when your skin or the whites of your eyes turn yellow.
Swelling: Sometimes, your legs or belly might swell up.

These signs can be easy to miss or can be mistaken for other problems. If you notice these symptoms, it's important to talk to a doctor. You can start by using Ubie's free symptom checker to better understand what might be causing your symptoms and help figure out what to do next. Remember, taking care of your liver is important for your overall health.

(References)

Smith A, Baumgartner K, & Bositis C. (2019). Cirrhosis: Diagnosis and Management. American family physician, 31845776.
Grattagliano I, Ubaldi E, Portincasa P, & Palasciano G. (2009). Liver disease: early signs you may be missing. The Journal of family practice, 19874729.
Ginès P, Krag A, Abraldes JG, Solà E, Fabrellas N, & Kamath PS. (2021). Liver cirrhosis. Lancet (London, England), 34543610.

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