What Color Is The Blood In Your Veins, Really?

Myth Busting: Veins Edition

Have you ever looked at the veins that are visible in your arms or legs? If so, you may have noticed that they may appear blue or purple at times. It’s highly likely that you have been introduced to several myths in regards to your blood and circulatory system as well. Moreover, I am going to explain why your blood appears blue underneath your skin, and I will let you in on the secret of its true color.

What Is Blood Made Up Of?

First, let’s take a look at the makeup of blood itself. Blood consists of red cells, white cells, platelets, and plasma. All of the different components of blood have their own duty inside of your body. For example, the red blood cells are in charge of carrying the oxygenated blood throughout your body to all of your muscles and organs. The white blood cells act as your defense system in protecting you from dangerous illnesses and infections. Platelets are in charge of stoping bleeding in case you are ever cut or injured. Finally, the plasma is in charge of carrying nutrients, proteins, and hormones throughout your body.

What Color Is Blood?

Now that you know what your blood is made up of, let’s talk about its color. Just to clear everything up, blood is in fact red. The reason that it may appear blue or purple is because of the light reflection that your eyes pick up when looking at your veins. As we discussed earlier, your blood carries oxygen throughout your body to your different organs and muscles. The red color appears because of the oxygenation process. Blood pumped directly from the heart is oxygen rich and bright red. As the blood circulates the body and oxygen is removed by tissue, the blood grows darker in appearance. For that reason, blood returning to the heart and lungs also may have a dark red, blue, or purple appearance. But it’s never really blue.

Now that you have been informed of the true color of blood, win at trivia and impress your friends and family. Be sure to always practice healthy eating habits and educate yourself on how what you eat and drink directly affects your blood and circulatory system. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to call or email Doctor Eston Wenger.

If you have concerns about your veins because you have symptoms of vein disease or risk factors mentioned, be sure to make an appointment with Vein Specialists Dr. Eston Wenger of Premier Surgical Associates in Cleveland, TN. Call (423) 472-5423 or CLICK HERE to request an appointment online!