Bulging veins occur when blood pools instead of flowing efficiently back to the heart. This usually happens when vein walls or valves weaken and stop working properly.
One common result is varicose veins, which are swollen, twisted veins most often found in the legs, though they can appear in the arms as well. These veins may ache, throb, or feel heavy after long periods of standing.
Treatment depends on severity and symptoms. Mild cases may improve with leg elevation, regular movement, or compression stockings, while more advanced cases may require injections or surgical procedures.
If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to complications such as slow-healing leg ulcers or dangerous blood clots. While visible veins aren’t always preventable, maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, quitting smoking, and wearing loose clothing can help protect vein health.
