Have you looked down at your hands or legs and noticed blue or bulging veins? You may be wondering, “Why are my veins suddenly so visible?” There are several reasons why these veins are cropping up, most of which are often benign. However, there is the possibility that visible veins are a reason for medical concern. Let the experts at the Cardiovascular Institute of the South’s Leg & Vein Center explain common reasons for visible veins. We’ll help you understand when it’s time to contact your vein specialist.
Why Are My Veins Visible?
If you look closely at your body, you may notice the faint blue tint of your veins webbing through your arms, hands, and legs. Typically, this is barely visible, but due to age, lifestyle, and health, your veins may become more pronounced. If your veins are appearing more prominent, this may not be a reason to panic. Here are a few common catalysts that cause your veins to be more visible.
Weight & Exercise
The amount of weight you carry, or the lack thereof, can influence the visibility of your veins. Excess weight can place additional strain on your lower body. This can lead to increase blood pressure and a lack of blood flow. This may cause the veins in your legs and hips to bulge and form visible veins. Those with low body fat may have noticeable veins as well. Lower levels of fat in the body mean that there is less fat between the veins and the skin. Without this buffer, blue or protruding veins can show up much more easily.
If you lead an active lifestyle, you may ask, “Why are my veins visible after working out?” Regular exercise is a fantastic method to improve your overall health, but you may also notice bulkier veins throughout your body. As you work out, your blood pressure rises. This can cause excess pressure in your veins which may limit blood flow. If blood backs up and pools in your veins, this can form engorged and gnarled varicose veins.
Weather
The South is no stranger to heat. As temperatures rise, your veins may expand in size. Not only can your veins stand out more beneath your skin, but you may also experience cramps where the veins are visible. This is due to strain and pressure placed on the vein walls as they dilate. If this discomfort is affecting your daily routines, make sure to schedule an appointment with a vein specialist.
Age & Hormones
As we age, our bodies produce less collagen, or a protein that benefits the health of our skin, bones, and bodily tissues. Reduced collagen can lead to decreased volume in the skin, making veins much more pronounced. Hormone changes from menopause, pregnancy, and puberty can also affect blood flow and pressure. This may lead to swollen, painful, and easily noticeable veins, especially in the lower body.
Genetics & Underlying Health Conditions
Venous disease affects over 11 million men and 22 million women in America. If patients with visible veins also have other health concerns such as this disease, this can be a reason for worry. For those currently experiencing, or who have a family history, of varicose veins, vein insufficiency, or blood clotting, it is important to speak with a healthcare expert as soon as possible. Using cutting-edge technology, your specialist can inspect your veins, monitor your blood flow, and identify what is the root cause of your visible veins. Your doctor may advise you to pursue treatment to both reduce the appearance of the veins and help reduce your risks of further health issues.
Visit a Specialist From the Leg & Vein Center
“Why are my veins visible? Could it be age, weather, or simply cosmetic concerns? Or is there a more serious reason that they are standing out?”
If you have concerns about your veins, it’s time to visit the specialists in vein health. The doctors at the Leg & Vein Center can help dispel your worries or determine the most effective treatment plan for notable issues. Get in touch with your closest clinic location to schedule an appointment. From simple checkups to helping you discover ways to manage pain from vein insufficiency, we are here to help. Request a vein consult with us today!
