left side neck vein

[archi25]

I'm 25 years old and just noticed a somewhat bulging vein in the left side of my neck. I noticed it in a picture that was taken when I was laughing very hard. It only appears when there's somewhat a large amount of pressure to my head and neck area (when I laugh very hard or hold my breath in a strenuous way). I've just noticed it this year, but have never had anything like it before. I'm only curious because I heard somewhere along the way that bulging veins on the left side of the neck could insinuate heart failure. By the sound of it, what would you think?
Thanks.

[Dr J Singh]

Hi,
A bulging vein in the neck only on one side may not indicate heart failure. It could be due to an obstruction in the venous drainage to the heart (jugular vein/superior vena cava). I’ll suggest you to undergo a venous Doppler for the confirmation of any obstruction and also an echocardiography to see the functioning of the heart. Heart failure can present with bulging veins in the neck but it’s usually associated with other symptoms also like shortness of breath, heaviness in the chest etc. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care.

[bargains]

Being young does not excuse you from good health. It could be nothing however it makes good sense to talk/ have a doctor to get check out and have some test done. This could save your live. Good luck!!