## Hydration Can Influence How Your Veins Look
Your hydration status may also affect how prominent your veins appear.
When you’re dehydrated, your blood volume can change and your skin may appear less full. In some circumstances, this can make superficial veins more noticeable.
Dehydration can occur after:
* Heavy exercise
* Excessive sweating
* Hot weather
* Vomiting or diarrhea
* Not drinking enough fluids
If your veins appear more prominent after a long workout or a hot day, hydration may be one of several factors involved.
However, visible veins shouldn’t be used as a reliable way to determine whether you’re adequately hydrated.
Thirst, urine color, and other symptoms can provide more useful clues.
If you experience significant dehydration symptoms, particularly dizziness, confusion, fainting, or inability to keep fluids down, medical attention may be necessary.
## Your Hand Position Can Change Their Appearance
Something as simple as the position of your hands can make veins look different.
If your hands are hanging down for an extended period, gravity can influence blood pooling in the superficial veins.
You may notice the veins appear fuller.
Raise your hands, move your fingers, or change position, and their appearance may change.
This is another reason not to panic after noticing a temporary difference.
