Visible Veins in Hands and Feet: Causes and Concerns - Cardiology

Share to:

Prominent blood vessels in the hands and feet?


Hello Doctor, I am currently on a working holiday in Japan, and this job is my last stop.
I will be returning to Taiwan around the end of August! However, recently I have noticed significant changes in my hands and feet; my veins have become very prominent.
My mother has a history of varicose veins, so I suspect I may have inherited this issue.
At this hotel, I occasionally stand for up to 12 hours during busy times, but when it's not busy, it's manageable.
However, shortly after I arrived, I began to notice that my leg condition was worsening.
Although it hasn't deteriorated too much, my arms have started to show prominent veins, extending even to the front of my shoulders.
I have always had noticeable veins on the back of my hands, but I'm unsure if this is also affecting my face.
Recently, I have suddenly felt some faint blue veins surfacing (but not to the extent of visible varicosities).
I am really worried about my health, but I haven't experienced any specific discomfort; my appetite is normal.
I have occasionally felt nauseous, but that usually happens if I don't sleep well the night before.
I want to hold off on seeing a doctor until I return to Taiwan, so I would like to ask you if this issue is serious.
I have been experiencing occasional insomnia and have not been eating my meals at regular times.
Recently, I have been taking DHC fat-burning supplements and multivitamins, and I am genuinely concerned about my health status...
Thank you, Doctor, for patiently reading this.

Jen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/07/09

Dr. Li Han reply Cardiology


Hello, regarding your inquiry about "prominent blood vessels in the arms and legs" - in the shoulders and limbs; "there are no specific symptoms of discomfort, appetite is normal, but recently there have been occasional episodes of sudden nausea." This should not be a major concern, and you can wait until you return to your home country to consult a specialist in person.
Typically, this falls under the care of a cardiovascular surgeon.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare Changhua Hospital is concerned about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2017/07/09

More Info


Visible veins in the hands and feet can be a common concern, especially for individuals who have a family history of conditions like varicose veins. In your case, it sounds like you are experiencing increased visibility of veins in your arms and legs, which can be attributed to several factors.

Firstly, the appearance of prominent veins can be influenced by genetic predisposition. Since you mentioned that your mother has varicose veins, it is possible that you may inherit a tendency towards vein-related issues. Varicose veins occur when the valves in the veins become weak or damaged, leading to blood pooling and the veins becoming enlarged and visible. This condition is often exacerbated by prolonged standing or sitting, which can increase venous pressure in the lower extremities.

Your job, which requires you to stand for long hours, could be contributing to the visibility of your veins. When you stand for extended periods, the blood flow in your legs can become sluggish, leading to increased pressure in the veins. This can cause veins to become more pronounced. Additionally, dehydration or fluctuations in body weight can also affect the appearance of veins, as they can lead to changes in blood volume and skin elasticity.

The fact that you are experiencing visible veins without significant discomfort is a positive sign. However, it is essential to monitor for any symptoms that may indicate a more serious condition, such as swelling, pain, or changes in skin color. If you notice these symptoms, it would be advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Regarding your occasional feelings of nausea and sleep disturbances, these could be related to various factors, including stress, dietary changes, or even the fatigue associated with your work schedule. It is important to maintain a balanced diet and ensure you are eating regular meals, as irregular eating patterns can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort and affect your overall well-being.

As for the supplements you are taking, while multivitamins can be beneficial, it is crucial to ensure that they are appropriate for your needs. Excessive intake of certain supplements, especially those aimed at fat reduction, can sometimes lead to adverse effects. It would be wise to consult with a healthcare professional regarding the use of these supplements, especially if you have concerns about their impact on your health.

In summary, while the visibility of your veins may be concerning, it is often a benign condition, particularly in the absence of other symptoms. However, given your family history and the nature of your work, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare provider upon your return to Taiwan. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly imaging studies, to assess your vascular health and provide personalized recommendations. In the meantime, consider incorporating regular movement into your day, staying hydrated, and practicing good posture to help alleviate any potential strain on your veins.

Similar Q&A

Why Are My Veins So Prominent in My Hands and Feet?

I would like to ask why the blood vessels in my hands and feet are particularly prominent, especially when it's hot. My hands are completely covered with protruding veins, and it feels really unpleasant! I wonder if there’s a way to improve this. Thank you!


Dr. Lu Shangbin reply Surgery
The visible blood vessels in the hands and feet are likely the superficial veins located just beneath the skin. If they are particularly prominent, it may be related to congenital vascular anomalies or venous insufficiency leading to varicose veins. It is advisable to consult wit...

[Read More] Why Are My Veins So Prominent in My Hands and Feet?


Understanding Varicose Veins: Symptoms and Concerns in the Legs

The appearance of prominent veins on the front and back of the lower leg, as well as on the inner side of the calf, which are a bluish-green color similar to those on the arms and hands, may indicate the presence of varicose veins. If these veins become more pronounced after stan...


Dr. Li Qinglong reply Surgery
Hello, sir: Regarding the issue you mentioned, such as varicose veins, we still recommend that you take the time to visit the surgical outpatient clinic for a physician's examination to confirm the diagnosis. Thank you again for your correspondence. The Hualien Hospital of t...

[Read More] Understanding Varicose Veins: Symptoms and Concerns in the Legs


Why Are My Veins More Visible? Understanding Potential Health Concerns

Hello Doctor, I am 160 cm tall and weigh around 70 kg. Previously, my veins were not very visible. However, this past week, I have noticed that the blue veins on the inner side of my wrists have become more prominent (they appear bluer, and the area where the veins are visible ha...


Dr. Wu Zongying reply Family Medicine
Hello: The dilation or constriction of blood vessels is related to temperature and circulation. When the temperature is higher or when consuming more stimulating foods, blood vessels tend to dilate. Conditions that increase blood circulation, such as after exercise or consuming m...

[Read More] Why Are My Veins More Visible? Understanding Potential Health Concerns


Understanding Vein-Related Issues: Pain and Visible Veins in Your Hand

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you some questions. Yesterday, I suddenly felt pain in the thenar eminence of my right hand (it still hurts now), and I noticed that there are quite prominent veins visible in that area (the same area on my left hand does not have this). I would ...


Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
Since the actual condition cannot be assessed, it is recommended that you visit the outpatient clinic for an examination.

[Read More] Understanding Vein-Related Issues: Pain and Visible Veins in Your Hand


Related FAQ

Hands And Feet

(Cardiology)

Vein

(Cardiology)

Vascular Lesions

(Cardiology)

Varicose Veins

(Surgery)

Leg

(Internal Medicine)

Valve Insufficiency

(Cardiology)

Foot

(Dermatology)

Postural Hypotension

(Cardiology)

Numbness In Feet

(Family Medicine)

Weakness In Hands And Feet

(Neurology)