Daily Updates News 
CVI can cause leg swelling, pain, and discoloration—get the facts early
Introduction
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a condition many people haven’t heard of—until it affects someone high-profile. Recently, U.S. President Donald Trump was diagnosed with CVI after experiencing leg swelling, as confirmed by the White House on July 17, 2025. While the announcement also stated there were no signs of more serious conditions like heart failure or deep vein thrombosis (DVT), the diagnosis has sparked curiosity around what CVI is, why it happens, and how it can be treated.
What Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)?
CVI is a circulatory disorder in which the veins in your legs can’t properly return blood back to the heart. This occurs due to damaged valves inside the veins, which are supposed to keep blood flowing in one direction. When these valves weaken or malfunction, blood flows backward and pools in the lower limbs, leading to swelling and discomfort.
It’s more common than you might think—affecting millions globally—and is especially prevalent in people over 50.
What Causes CVI?
There are several risk factors that increase your chances of developing chronic venous insufficiency:
- Age (especially over 50)
- Obesity or being overweight
- A sedentary lifestyle
- Prolonged standing or sitting
- Smoking
- Pregnancy
- A family history of vein issues
- Previous leg injuries or surgeries
- History of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
In many cases, CVI develops slowly over time due to increased pressure in the leg veins, which stretches and weakens the vein walls and valves.
Symptoms of Chronic Venous Insufficiency
CVI can present a range of symptoms, depending on its severity. Some of the most common signs include:
- Swelling in the lower legs or ankles
- A heavy, tired, or full feeling in the legs
- Aching or pain that improves when resting or elevating the legs
- Varicose veins (twisted, enlarged veins)
- Itching or burning sensation in the legs
- Cramping, especially at night
- Skin that looks leathery or discolored around the ankles
- Flaky or itchy skin
- Restless legs
- Open sores or ulcers that don’t heal easily
Why Does It Matter? What Happens If Left Untreated?
Ignoring CVI isn’t a good idea. If left untreated, the increased pressure in the veins can cause tiny blood vessels (capillaries) to rupture. This leads to skin damage, ulcers, and potentially serious infections. Over time, it can significantly impact quality of life, mobility, and even lead to long-term disability in severe cases.
Treatment Options for Chronic Venous Insufficiency
The good news? CVI is treatable, especially when diagnosed early. Treatment typically focuses on improving blood flow and relieving symptoms. Here’s what it usually involves:
1. Lifestyle Changes
- Regular walking or leg exercises to promote circulation
- Avoiding long periods of standing or sitting
- Elevating legs above heart level to reduce swelling
- Maintaining a healthy weight
2. Compression Therapy
- Compression stockings help apply pressure to the legs, encouraging blood to flow upwards
- Bandaging in more advanced cases
3. Medications
- Prescribed drugs to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, or treat ulcers if present
4. Minimally Invasive Procedures
- Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) or Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): A catheter heats and seals the damaged vein
- Sclerotherapy: A chemical is injected to collapse the faulty vein
5. Surgery
In severe or complicated cases, surgical intervention may be required to remove or bypass damaged veins.
What We Know About President Trump’s Diagnosis
According to the official statement, President Trump was evaluated after noticeable swelling in his lower legs. His medical team ruled out more dangerous conditions such as heart failure, kidney disease, or DVT. The diagnosis of chronic venous insufficiency was made following clinical exams. While no alarming conditions were found, the spotlight on CVI has brought this often-overlooked condition into the conversation.
When to See a Doctor
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, don’t brush them off. CVI is manageable—but the earlier it’s detected, the better the outcomes. A vascular specialist can perform diagnostic tests like duplex ultrasounds to evaluate your vein health.
Conclusion
Chronic venous insufficiency is more than just “tired legs.” It’s a real medical condition that affects blood flow and can lead to serious complications if not managed. With proper diagnosis, treatment, and lifestyle changes, most people with CVI can live active and comfortable lives. Whether you’re a world leader or an everyday person, paying attention to leg health is important.
