What is a blown vein?

A blown vein refers to a punctured or collapsed vein caused by an injury or medical procedure. This can cause blood to leak out of the vein and into the surrounding tissue, resulting in bruising, swelling, and discomfort.

Blown veins can occur during medical treatments such as intravenous (IV) therapy, blood draws, and injections, and can be a common occurrence for people with difficult-to-find veins or who have very small veins.

Symptoms of a blown vein may include pain, tenderness, redness, and swelling around the affected area. If the bleeding continues, it can impede circulation and cause further complications.

Treatment for a blown vein depends on the severity of the injury and may include rest, ice, and compression, or in some cases, surgical intervention. In some instances, a blown vein may require rehydration, and medical supervision to ensure the affected person is not experiencing any serious symptoms.

To prevent blown veins, medical professionals should take appropriate measures to identify suitable veins for procedures, and take caution when performing medical procedures to reduce the risk of injuring veins.