How can you tell if liver is swollen?

Exam and labs: If by swelling you mean enlarged, a physician should ne able to detect it. When in doubt, bloodwork and imaging studies like ultrasound and/or ct scanning will confirm the diagnosis of liver enlargement. However, the liver can be inflammed without being significantly swollen, so a doctors visit is strongly recommended.

Your doctor: can palpate your liver. S/he will also percuss your liver using his/her fingers.