Varicose veins occur when vein valves become weak or damaged, causing blood to pool instead of flowing smoothly back to the heart. This causes the veins to stretch and swell, making them more visible and sometimes painful.
- Thrombosis (blood clots)
- Pulmonary embolism
- Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
- Stroke
If you notice visible blue veins accompanied by pain or discomfort, don’t ignore it. Seek medical evaluation as soon as possible.
Diagnosing the Cause: When to See a Doctor
Any time veins become suddenly more visible, especially with swelling, pain, or tenderness, it’s important to rule out a serious cause.
Your doctor may use:
- Physical examination
- Ultrasound imaging
- Venous function testing
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