Context:

In mid-July 2025, following mild swelling of his ankles and visible hand bruising, former U.S. President Donald Trump—aged 79—was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). Multiple medical examinations, including Doppler ultrasound and echocardiogram, ruled out more serious conditions like deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease. Doctors described CVI as a benign and age-related vascular condition, quite common among older adults

What Is CVI?

Chronic Venous Insufficiency occurs when the valves within leg veins fail, causing blood to flow backward and pool in the lower extremities. This leads to increased venous pressure and can manifest as pain, swelling, leg cramps, varicose veins, skin changes, or even venous ulcers in advanced stages.

Causes & Risk Factors

• Age: Particularly those over 50 and more so over 70
• Lifestyle factors: Sedentary habits, prolonged standing or sitting, obesity, smoking
• Clinical history: Varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), leg injury, or phlebitis
• Genetics and female sex: Pregnancy and hereditary susceptibility also play a role.

Typical Symptoms

• Swelling in legs/ankles (especially by day's end)
• Heaviness, aching, or fatigue in legs
• Cramping (“charley horse”), burning, or itchy sensations
• Visible varicose veins; reddish-brown skin discoloration or leathery texture
• Non-healing ulcers near the ankles in advanced stages, along with possible restless legs syndrome.

Diagnosis

Healthcare providers evaluate medical history and physical symptoms. A duplex ultrasound (Doppler + B-mode) is often used to assess vein function and detect reflux or blockage. Further tests like ankle-brachial index or MR venography may be used in surgical planning or if arterial disease is suspected.

Treatment & Precautions

Conservative Management (“3 E’s”):

1. Exercise: Regular walking and calf muscle activity
2. Elevation: Raising legs above heart level periodically
3. Elastic Compression: Wearing Graduated Compression Stockings (20–30 mmHg) to support venous return

• Other lifestyle changes: Weight control, reduced sodium intake, smoking cessation

Medical & Surgical Interventions:

• Topical or oral medications for inflammation or ulcer management
• Minimally invasive procedures: Endovenous laser or radiofrequency ablation, sclerotherapy, or venous angioplasty/stenting
• Open surgery: Vein ligation or stripping may be considered in severe or refractory cases

CVI and Cardiovascular Risk

Studies suggest individuals with CVI may be about 60% more likely to have concurrent cardiovascular disease compared with age-matched peers without it. Symptoms may be subtle early on but progressive venous stasis raises risk for complications like ulcers or infections

Why This Matters

Recognizing CVI is important because it:

• Is common but underreported in the elderly
• Can be early indicator of vascular impairment or future complications
• Responds well to simple lifestyle interventions
• Requires awareness to prevent progression to venous ulcers and potential systemic involvement

Summary Table

Conclusion

Chronic Venous Insufficiency is a manageable circulatory condition common among older adults. Trump’s diagnosis underscores its prevalence and highlights the importance of early detection based on moderate symptoms like swelling or varicose veins. With proper conservative care and timely intervention, progression and discomfort can often be avoided—reinforcing public health focus on vascular wellness, particularly in aging populations.