Swollen veins (varicose veins) can be painful and unsightly. Veins can swell for quite a few reasons, though they most commonly occur when there is something blocking them or hindering proper blood flow. Common conditions that can cause swollen veins are pregnancy, heredity, weight, age and thrombophlebitis (an inflamed vein with associated blood clot).

You will likely notice them bulging near the surface of your skin, and sometimes causing you pain. In most cases you can reduce the swelling at home. Make sure you take action against swollen veins quickly — if you leave them alone they will likely get worse.