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What Causes Swollen Veins? 

By October 27, 2022December 19th, 2023Preventative Care, Vein
Swollen Veins

Non-Varicose Swollen Veins

If you have veins on your body that appear blue and purple, and seem swollen or have risen up under the surface of your skin, this could indicate that you have varicose veins. Bulging or swollen veins affect 1 in 3 adults in the U.S.  

However, there can be reasons for the swelling of the veins that aren’t due to varicose veins. To read more about varicose- and non-varicose-related vein swelling, check out the list below. 

What are some reasons that your veins might be swollen? 

Some possible reasons for bulging varicose veins are as follows: 

  • Age — Varicose veins can occur at any age, but are predominantly seen in older adults. If you’re an older adult, you’re more likely to develop bulging varicose veins.  
  • Smoking — Being a chronic smoker increases your risk of varicose veins, because smoking damages the lining of the veins. 
  • Family history — If one or more of your family members has a history of vein problems like varicose veins, you have a higher risk of developing the condition too. 

What are some reasons for swollen veins that aren’t due to varicose veins? 

  • Dietary deficiency — Malnutrition can lower your body fat percentage, which can expose your veins more than if you were to have a normal or high percentage of body fat. 
  • Underlying conditions — Certain underlying conditions can cause swollen or bulging veins, like vasculitis
  • Extreme exercise — Sometimes veins can become swollen with frequent, extreme exercise. This is only temporary, and once you return to normal blood circulation, your veins will probably seem less obvious. 

What can you do if you have swollen veins? 

If you have swollen veins, you should contact your physician who can appropriately refer you to a vein and vascular specialist. Although having varicose veins is a progressive disease, meaning it can’t be “cured,” your symptoms can be effectively managed with the right professional help

Contact United Vein & Vascular Centers for your vein treatments 

You don’t have to continue worrying about symptoms of vein conditions that are making your life more difficult. Our vein specialists at United Vein & Vascular Centers are here to help you. Each of our team members understands the uncertainty and discomfort that vein problems can lead to, and that’s why they’re committed to helping you better understand your condition, your symptoms and the options you can use to address them.  

Our specialists can also help you find the most effective treatment option for your vein condition and include it in a comprehensive treatment plan that’s designed to:  

  • Reduce your symptoms. 
  • Improve your ability to walk and perform other normal daily tasks.  
  • Increase your overall quality of life.  

Contact us today to learn more about your vein condition and the ways it can be treated or to set up an initial appointment.