Bulging veins aren’t always a sign of danger, but they can sometimes indicate an underlying medical issue. Understanding why veins become more visible is important for recognizing potential health concerns.
Common causes include excessive exercise, aging, hot temperatures, tight clothing, genetics, sun exposure, and being overweight. In some cases, bulging veins may be harmless, but if they appear with discoloration, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider.
Veins bulge when blood pools in weakened or damaged veins, rather than flowing smoothly back to the heart. This often results in varicose veins—swollen, twisted veins that typically appear on the legs but can also show up on the arms.
According to Cleveland Clinic, varicose veins are often triggered by hormonal changes (especially during pregnancy), obesity, genetics, smoking, or spending long periods standing or sitting.