Jugular Vein Distention: Causes

What causes jugular vein distention?

Jugular vein distention is an indirect indicator of the pressure in the right atrium, the heart chamber that receives blood from the body. Increases in blood volume, or anything that interferes with filling of the heart or movement of the blood within the heart from the right atrium to the right ventricle, can increase the central venous pressure.

Common causes of jugular vein distention

Jugular vein distention may be caused by heart conditions and conditions that affect blood vessels including:

What are the potential complications of jugular vein distention?

Because jugular vein distention can be due to serious diseases, failure to seek treatment can result in serious complications and permanent damage. Once the underlying cause is diagnosed, it is important for you to follow the treatment plan that you and your health care professional design specifically for you to reduce the risk of potential complications including:

What is jugular vein distention?

The jugular veins carry blood from the head to the superior vena cava (the main vein of the upper body), which empties into the heart. The external jugular vein is closest to the skin and can sometimes be seen as a rope-like bulge on the side of the neck. Bulging of the external jugular vein is known as jugular vein distention.

What other symptoms might occur with jugular vein distention?

Jugular vein distention may accompany other symptoms that vary depending on the underlying disease, disorder or condition. Symptoms that frequently affect the blood vessels, heart, and fluid volume may also involve other body systems.

Circulatory symptoms that may occur along with jugular vein distention