Why do I have varicose veins in my arm?

Varicose veins are a common condition and affect about 15% of the population.¹ You can see and feel these twisted, bulging veins under the skin. While they typically occur in the legs, there are also cases of varicose veins in arms. Besides being unsightly, varicose veins can cause a variety of symptoms.

Varicose Veins in Arms

Some people have bulging veins in their arms, although it is rare. These veins are twisted and swollen and may be somewhat painful to touch. You may have pain in the affected arm, especially after exercise.² Many factors can cause arm varicose veins, such as:³

• Vein wall defects
• Vein valve defects with venous reflux
• Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome
• Arteriovenous fistulas
• Obstruction of the subclavian vein
• Injury
• Heavy physical work 

Other causes include smoking, being female, consuming a low-calorie diet, and aging.⁴

Varicose Veins: When to Worry

Varicose veins are not a serious health hazard. However, they can cause complications such as deep vein clots and inflammation (deep vein thrombophlebitis).⁵ 

Deep vein thrombophlebitis is dangerous because a clot can detach, travel to the lung, and cause pulmonary embolism, which is a life-threatening condition. Superficial thrombophlebitis is another complication, but it’s not dangerous. It affects veins near the skin, which manifests as red, tender veins. 

Other complications of varicose veins in arms are skin discoloration, swelling, and chronic venous insufficiency (reduced blood flow).⁶

Varicose veins are rarely dangerous, but they can affect your quality of life. The constant itching, ache, and pain can make you uncomfortable and disturb your sleep. You may also be unable to exercise or participate in sports. The unsightly appearance may also encourage you to seek treatment. You should consult your doctor if bulging, lumpy veins suddenly appear in your arms.

Arm Varicose Veins Treatment

Though bulging veins in arms are not dangerous, they can cause uncomfortable and long-lasting symptoms and prevent you from doing some activities. Their appearance may be upsetting, and you might seek treatment for cosmetic reasons.

Several treatment modalities are available for this condition:⁷

• Endovenous radiofrequency ablation X
• Endovenous laser ablation  X
• Microfoam injection
• Cyanoacrylate (VenaSeal) X
• Microphlebectomy (minimally invasive surgery)

You should consult a vein treatment specialist if you have varicose veins in arms. Use our physician locator to find an expert near you. You can also consult our library of articles to find comprehensive information about venous disorders.

SOURCES: 

1. Johns Hopkins Medicine: “Venous Disease.” 
2. Journal of Vascular Surgery: “Primary varicose veins of the upper extremity: A report of three cases.” 
3. Journal of Vascular Surgery: “Primary varicose veins of the upper extremity: A report of three cases.” 
4. Cleveland Clinic: “Bulging Veins.” 
5. Johns Hopkins Medicine: “Venous Disease.“
6. Johns Hopkins Medicine: “Venous Disease.“
7. University of Utah Health: “When Should I be Concerned About Varicose Veins?“