Many people notice blue or green veins on their hands and wonder what they mean. While veins are normal, “their visibility can sometimes offer clues about your internal health—particularly the condition of your liver.” The liver filters toxins, stores nutrients, and regulates metabolism, so early signs of trouble can show on the skin and veins.

Veins can look more visible when you’re warm, exercising, or have low body fat. But if they stand out more than usual without these reasons, it might be worth paying attention. The article explains that bulging veins may sometimes connect to liver issues because the liver helps manage “blood flow and fluid balance in the body.”

Vein color can also offer hints. Healthy veins look blue or green due to light and skin tone. However, veins that stay “persistently deep blue or dark green” along with swelling or puffiness may suggest the liver isn’t handling blood or toxins properly. This can lead to fluid retention or poor circulation.

Visible veins alone are not proof of liver trouble, but they matter if you also notice other symptoms like “yellowing of the skin or eyes,” swelling in the legs or abdomen, unexplained tiredness, dark urine, pale stools, itching, or easy bruising. These signs may require medical attention.

You can protect your liver by eating well, limiting alcohol, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and being careful with medications. If your veins change suddenly or appear with symptoms, a check-up can rule out or detect issues like fatty liver, hepatitis, or cirrhosis.