Jugular vein distension

In normal or standing position, the external jugular vein is not exposed, and it is slightly filled in the supine position, but it is limited to 2/3 of the distance from the upper edge of the clavicle to the mandibular angle. The jugular vein is full, swollen, and full. It is called jugular vein distension, which indicates that the venous pressure is increased, which is abnormal. The jugular vein is a pressure gauge of the right atrium, which can reflect changes in pressure and volume of the right atrium. Because the right jugular vein is shorter than the left jugular vein and is a direct continuation of the superior vena cava, the right jugular vein can better reflect the pressure changes in the right atrium than the left.