Shortness of breath (especially when lying down)
Fatigue and weakness
Swelling in the legs and feet
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Why it matters:
Visible neck veins (jugular venous distension) are a key clinical sign of CHF and require prompt evaluation.
5. Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD)
What it is:
PVD occurs when arteries and veins in the limbs become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup (atherosclerosis). While it primarily affects arteries, it can also disrupt venous circulation.
As the body tries to reroute blood, surface veins may become more visible — a compensatory response to poor circulation.
Symptoms:
Cold or numb limbs
Leg pain while walking (claudication)
Weak or absent pulses in the feet
Shiny, thin skin over the legs
Slow-healing sores or ulcers
PVD increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and limb amputation if untreated.
When to See a Doctor
Not all visible veins are a cause for concern — especially if they’ve developed gradually and cause no pain.
But seek medical attention if you notice:
