If I have blue veins (reticular veins) on my upper body, does this mean I have a valve problem in my deep veins?

I all of a sudden had blue veins on my waist, chest, inner upper arms, hands, neck and face, as well as legs, without pregnancy. They seem to be reticular veins and the ones on my arm burn. Does this mean I have a valve problem in my deep veins?

Answers from doctors (8)


More About Doctor David Green, MD

Published on Sep 03, 2021

No, it does not reflect the condition of your deep venous system.

Answered by David Green, MD (View Profile)

No, it does not reflect the condition of your deep venous system.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS, RVT, RPVI, RPhS

Published on Sep 07, 2017

It is best for you to see a certified vein specialist in order for him/her to get a thorough medical history, do a physical exam, and direct some studies that may be relevant to diagnose the underlying problem. You are correct. It is unusual to have such veins appear throughout your trunk and upper extremities all of a sudden.

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Answered by Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS, RVT, RPVI, RPhS

It is best for you to see a certified vein specialist in order for him/her to get a thorough medical history, do a physical exam, and direct some studies that may be relevant to diagnose the underlying problem. You are correct. It is unusual to have such veins appear throughout your trunk and upper extremities all of a sudden.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Sep 07, 2017

Reticular veins do not mean that you have a deep vein or valvular problem. Fair skinned people tend to have more easily visible reticular veins. Also there is a strong genetic relationship for their development. Sometimes there is no reason to explain them. See a vein specialist for a venous evaluation.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Reticular veins do not mean that you have a deep vein or valvular problem. Fair skinned people tend to have more easily visible reticular veins. Also there is a strong genetic relationship for their development. Sometimes there is no reason to explain them. See a vein specialist for a venous evaluation.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein Center

Published on Jul 03, 2012

It does not mean you have a valve problem with your deeper veins. If you think it is getting worse then get a check up with your doctor.

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Answered by Advanced Vein Center

It does not mean you have a valve problem with your deeper veins. If you think it is getting worse then get a check up with your doctor.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Veins etc. at Comprehensive Cardiovascular Consultants

Published on Jul 03, 2012

It might be a sign of a vein valve issue, but not always. You need to be seen and assessed further.

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Answered by Veins etc. at Comprehensive Cardiovascular Consultants

It might be a sign of a vein valve issue, but not always. You need to be seen and assessed further.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Published on Jul 03, 2012

You need to see a vein MD to check.

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Answered by Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

You need to see a vein MD to check.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Coastal Vein Institute & Aesthetic Center

Published on Jul 03, 2012

Not necessarily. I recommend you be evaluated by your primary care physician to make sure there are no signs of other diseases present. I also recommend that a vein specialist should evaluate you.

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Answered by Coastal Vein Institute & Aesthetic Center

Not necessarily. I recommend you be evaluated by your primary care physician to make sure there are no signs of other diseases present. I also recommend that a vein specialist should evaluate you.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Austin Vein Specialists

Published on May 08, 2012

Thank you for your question. These upper body veins are usually not the result of valve problems, but could be the result of other vein problems such as blood clots (deep venous thrombosis or DVT), venous obstruction or occlusion due to vein damage, SVC syndrome, etc. I would recommend you get evaluated by a vascular physician as soon as possible to evaluate the possibility of some other vein condition causing your problem.

Answered by Austin Vein Specialists (View Profile)

Thank you for your question. These upper body veins are usually not the result of valve problems, but could be the result of other vein problems such as blood clots (deep venous thrombosis or DVT), venous obstruction or occlusion due to vein damage, SVC syndrome, etc. I would recommend you get evaluated by a vascular physician as soon as possible to evaluate the possibility of some other vein condition causing your problem.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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