External jugular veins

Looks like

A vein under the skin crossing the side of the neck, visible when you strain or lie flat.

What it does

Drains blood from the scalp and face.

Keeping it well

Visible filling when sitting upright suggests raised heart pressure; needs no other care.

Its parts

• Posterior auricular vein
• Posterior division of retromandibular vein

Related conditions

• Chronic venous insufficiency
• Clotting disorders (thrombophilia & APS)
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Varicose veins