Many individuals wonder if they can feel their jugular vein, a common query given its prominent location in the neck. While it is possible to perceive sensations from this vein, it is often confused with other structures, particularly arteries, which have a different feel. This article clarifies what the jugular vein is, how to gently locate it, and how to distinguish its subtle sensations from the more pronounced pulse of an artery.
Understanding the Jugular Vein
The jugular veins are major blood vessels in the neck, returning deoxygenated blood from the head and neck back to the heart, specifically to the superior vena cava, which then empties into the right atrium.
There are two main types: the internal jugular veins and the external jugular veins. The internal jugular veins are deeper, running alongside the carotid arteries. The external jugular veins are more superficial, lying just beneath the skin and platysma muscle. It is primarily the external jugular vein, and sometimes pulsations from the internal jugular vein, that a person might perceive due to their more accessible location.
Locating and Feeling Your Jugular Vein
To locate your jugular vein, particularly the external jugular, gently tilt your head slightly to one side, looking away from the side you are examining. This can make the vein more visible or palpable, especially if you are lying down or in a semi-reclined position. Then, lightly place your fingertips in the soft hollow area just above your collarbone, near the side of your neck, or along the side of your neck where a prominent vein might be observed.
When feeling for the jugular vein, expect a very subtle sensation, if any, rather than a distinct pulse. A normal jugular vein sensation might feel like a soft, gentle undulation or a subtle ripple, which can sometimes be more noticeable during specific breathing maneuvers, such as holding your breath briefly. Apply only very light pressure, as pressing too hard can compress the vein and obscure any sensation.
Distinguishing Veins from Arteries in the Neck
Distinguishing between a vein and an artery in the neck is important because they feel distinctly different upon palpation. The carotid artery, which runs alongside the internal jugular vein, carries oxygenated blood away from the heart and produces a strong, regular, and distinct pulse that is easily felt. This pulse is synchronized with your heartbeat and results from the forceful contraction of the heart pumping blood into the arteries.
In contrast, the jugular vein carries deoxygenated blood towards the heart and does not produce a strong, palpable pulse. Instead, you might feel a subtle undulation or a gentle wave-like movement, known as the jugular venous pulse. This venous pulse is not a true arterial pulse but rather a reflection of pressure changes within the right atrium of the heart as it fills and empties. Unlike an arterial pulse, the jugular venous pulse can be obliterated or made to disappear with very light pressure applied just above the point of palpation, as the vein is easily compressible.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While feeling your jugular vein can be a normal experience, certain sensations or visible changes warrant medical attention. If you notice a prominent, visible, or unusually strong pulsation in the jugular area that does not disappear with light pressure, or if it feels distinctly different from a normal venous pulse, a healthcare professional should evaluate it. Similarly, any sudden swelling, persistent pain, redness, or discoloration in the neck area, especially if accompanied by tenderness or warmth, could indicate an underlying issue.
Other concerning signs that necessitate medical consultation include any new lumps or masses in the neck, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained changes in voice. While self-assessment can provide some initial awareness, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. A healthcare provider can accurately diagnose any abnormalities and recommend appropriate treatment.