What is chronic venous insufficiency? After recent speculation about President Donald Trump’s health, his physician announced that the commander-in-chief has been diagnosed with the condition.
“The President underwent a comprehensive examination, including diagnostic vascular studies. Bilateral lower extremity venous Doppler ultrasounds were performed and revealed chronic venous insufficiency, a benign and common condition, particularly in individuals over the age of 70,” said Sean P. Barbabella, physician to the president, in a memorandum. “Importantly, there was no evidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or arterial disease.”
According to the Society for Vascular Surgery, blood pools in the legs of people with CVI because the valves in their veins don’t work properly. As the blood pools, increased pressure is put on the walls of the veins. It is a common condition that may affect up to 40% of the U.S. population, according to the SVS.
As people age, the risk of developing the conditions increases. Per the American Heart Association, CVI was listed as the principal diagnosis in 5,805 hospital discharges and among all-listed diagnoses in 234,655 hospital discharges during 2022, the year with the most recent data.
“If your valves aren’t working as well and the veins aren’t working as they used to when you're younger, the fluid tends to stay down and even though it’s pushed back towards the heart, there’s some that stays behind,” explained KYW medical editor Dr. Brian McDonough.
In addition to swelling (also known as edema), other CVI symptoms can include varicose veins and skin changes such as red, itchy, or scaly patches on the lower legs caused by poor blood flow and ulcerations.
“The condition can result in pain, itch or bleeding in the impacted area, as well as aching, cramping, throbbing, leg fatigue, heaviness or restless legs,” said the AHA.
Treatment for the condition includes exercise, compression stockings and sometimes weight loss. The SVS said some cases require vein ablation or stripping, angioplasty and stents. Prevention of severe complications such as venous leg ulcers is also important. CVI was listed as the cause of death for 62 people in 2022, the association said.
CBS News reported that of the president at the Club World Cup soccer final in New Jersey over the weekend “showed him with noticeably swollen ankles,” and fueled speculation about his health. His physician said that Trump noticed swelling in his lower legs in recent weeks, prompting a medical evaluation.
“Laboratory testing included a complete blood count, comprehensive metabolic panel, coagulation profile, D-dimer, B-type natriuretic peptide and cardiac biomarkers,” said Barbabella. “All results were within normal limits. An echocardiogram was also performed and confirmed normal cardiac structure and function. No signs of heart failure, renal impairment, or systemic illness were identified.”
Barbabella also said that bruising seen on the president’s hands can be attributed to his use of aspirin as a preventative measure for cardiovascular issues and frequent handshaking he said it is normal and not cause for concern.
While CVI can impact quality of life, early detection can make a difference, according to past volunteer chair of the American Heart Association’s Vascular Health Advisory Committee and Scientific Council on Peripheral Vascular Disease Joshua A. Beckman.
“That is why it is vital for individuals to be aware of the signs and symptoms of CVI so they can seek timely medical evaluation and intervention,” he said.
For those who are concerned about the condition, McDonough also offered some advice.
“I would tell people, you know, when you get a chance, you know, kick your feet up, you know, rest and get them so they’re not always gravity dependent. That helps a lot,” said the doctor.