One morning, you look in the mirror and, surprise: a blue vein snakes across your arm, leg, or even chest. You’re sure it wasn’t there yesterday. And as is often the case in these cases… the questions come thick and fast: Is this normal? Is it serious? Should I be worried? Don’t panic, we’ll figure out together what it might (or might not) mean.
Before you sound the alarm, it’s good to know that in the majority of cases, these newly visible veins are harmless . Here are some very simple explanations:
Fat loss : Less fat under the skin = more visible veins. Nothing abnormal, especially if you have changed your diet or resumed physical activity .
Sport and bodybuilding : Blood flow increases during exercise, muscles swell… and veins pop out, pushed towards the surface. This is even a desired effect among athletes.
Heat : In high temperatures, veins dilate to better regulate body heat. This naturally makes them more visible.
Age : Over the years, the skin becomes thinner and loses elasticity, allowing what is underneath to show through more easily, including veins.
Hormonal changes : Pregnancy, menopause, hormone treatments… hormonal upheavals can temporarily modify blood circulation.