What's Causing Veins To Bulge

Do you have enlarged, twisted, and often swollen veins on your legs? Are they blue or dark purple in colour? These are usually called varicose veins, which occur due to weakened valves in the veins. Veins are said to have one-way valves that help blood flow in the right direction, back to the heart. However, when these valves become damaged or weak, blood can flow backward and pool in the veins, making them stretch and bulge. 

However, speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Nishan Reddy B, Consultant Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon, CARE Hospitals, Nampally, Hyderabad, explains that bulging veins are not only caused by varicose veins, but can also occur due to other conditions. 

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

DVT refers to a health condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. It can be potentially dangerous as the clot can break loose and move towards the lungs. This can cause Pulmonary Embolism (PE), which can lead to serious breathing difficulties and even death if not treated on time. According to Dr Reddy, DVT or blood clots in the deep veins of the legs can also result in enlarged and bulging veins.

One of the most common causes of blood clot formation includes immobility or extended periods of inactivity, such as sitting for long hours during travel or bed rest after surgery, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Venous Insufficiency

Just like varicose veins, venous insufficiency occurs when the veins in the legs have difficulty returning blood to the heart, often due to weakened valves. Symptoms include swelling, pain, and skin changes, and may also result in the development of varicose veins and skin ulcers.

Pregnancy

Dr Reddy shares that pregnancy can also lead to swollen and bulging veins as hormonal changes and increased blood volume during the pregnancy can put extra pressure on the veins, particularly in the legs. In fact, a study published in the Journal Cochrane Database Systematic Reviews suggests that pregnancy is a major contributory factor in the increased incidence of varicose veins in women. In such cases, the symptoms can be managed by wearing compression stockings, elevating the legs, and regular exercise. 

Obesity

Excess pressure on the veins is what often causes veins to bulge and swell. Obesity can therefore contribute to the development of bulging veins, particularly varicose veins, because of increased pressure on the veins from excess body weight. The added strain can weaken vein walls and valves, affecting blood flow and increasing the likelihood of venous insufficiency. 

Diagnosis And Treatment

It is extremely important to identify the underlying causes of bulging veins. While varicose veins is a common diagnosis, other factors may also contribute to it. Knowing what the cause behind the condition is helps in deciding on a treatment plan. Additionally, it helps prevent the condition from worsening and causing more severe health issues.

Dr Reddy recommends consulting a healthcare professional, such as a vascular specialist, who can conduct a thorough examination and possibly order diagnostic tests like ultrasounds or venography.

As a patient, one must provide a detailed medical history, including lifestyle habits, past medical conditions, and family history, to assist in the diagnosis.

Depending on the diagnosis, make necessary changes into your lifestyle and adhere to the doctor’s recommendations, which could involve wearing compression stockings, taking medications, undergoing procedures like sclerotherapy or endovenous laser treatment, or, in severe cases, surgery.

Reference Link

https://www.onlymyhealth.com/possible-reasons-of-bulging-veins-other-than-varicose-veins-1695982179