I've always had "deep veins" and I've always been pretty sure this is nurse-code for "fat". I used to squick and squirm about getting IVs or doing blood draws, but eventually I learned to just calm the f* down and everyone's life is easier.

I have coached people through which veins might hold, which veins blow easier, where to try looking, and a lot of "no it's ok you can keep poking." I've stopped having to ask for a pediatric needle as I've gotten better at telling people where to look, but it's still a chore. Can't ever find the one in my elbow - always gotta go with my hand....

My surgeon sent me for my 100-lbs-lost blood work (85+ since pre-surgery diet but 104 since my first visit!) and I went to the lab, took a deep breath and said, "I'm pretty patient about getting stuck, so if you can't find a vein right away, it's OK. My veins are hard to find."

"No, I see it, it's right there," said the tech. I looked. Sure enough I saw a little glint of blue in the fossa! "Your veins are great," she said.

"Great veins"?!? I have NEVER had "great veins"!!! But losing some of the thick fat in my arms.... Now I have great veins. WHO KNEW.

Go figure......all the women out there trying to get rid of unsightly veins and for you, it's a sight to behold...... Life is stranger than fiction......

Congrats on your new veins showing up....

funny I have the same problem...the other day, I was holding something and noticed my veins were "popping"...so weird to be excited about that...but it's wonderful!

Ha! Who would ever have guess that getting "vein-y" would be a victory.