Trump Diagnosed With Chronic Venous Insufficiency: What Is It About?

U.S. President Donald Trump is suffering from a chronic vein condition, the White House announced on Thursday, following days of public speculation sparked by photographs showing bruising on the former US president’s hand.

According to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, Trump recently experienced swelling in his legs and subsequently underwent a “comprehensive exam” that included vascular testing.

Leavitt explained that the bruising on Trump’s hand is consistent with “tissue damage from frequent handshaking” while taking aspirin, which she noted is “part of a standard cardio-vascular prevention regimen.” Despite these developments, Trump, now 79, has consistently maintained that he is in good health and once famously claimed to be “the healthiest president that’s ever lived.”

Understanding Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) is a type of vein disorder that occurs when the veins in the legs become damaged, according to Cleveland Clinic. Veins contain valves that are designed to help blood flow upwards toward the heart. However, when these valves are damaged, they fail to close properly, causing blood to flow backward, a condition known as venous reflux.

This reflux often leads to blood pooling in the lower legs. Common symptoms include swelling, particularly around the feet and ankles, as well as aching legs, a heavy or tingling feeling, and the appearance of varicose veins. Cleveland Clinic states that about one in three adults are affected by this condition, with CVI being more common in people over the age of 50. The risk of developing this disorder increases with age.

What Are The Common Symptoms?

Some of the common symptoms include leg swelling, much like what the former president has reportedly experienced, along with skin irritation.

These skin-related issues often appear as red, itchy, or flaky patches on the lower legs due to poor blood circulation, and in some cases, may lead to ulcers.

Other possible symptoms may involve pain, itching, bleeding, a heavy or fatigued feeling in the legs, cramping, throbbing sensations, and restlessness.

Typical skin changes associated with this condition include:

• Swelling in the legs
• Irritated or cracked skin resulting from scratching
• Red, swollen, crusted, or weepy skin, medically known as stasis dermatitis
• Visible varicose veins on the skin’s surface
• Thickening and hardening of the skin on the legs and ankles, known as lipodermatosclerosis
• Wounds or ulcers on the legs or ankles that are slow to heal

What Causes Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) can often arise from common issues like varicose veins. It may also develop if the valves inside the veins are damaged by conditions such as deep vein thrombosis or other types of blood clots.

Over time, as the veins weaken, they struggle to push blood efficiently back to the heart. When the tiny valves within these veins fail, blood begins to pool in the lower limbs, resulting in leg swelling, pain, and other circulatory complications.

Not everyone with varicose veins will develop CVI. However, it tends to occur more frequently in individuals with certain risk factors, including:

• Being female, tall, or overweight (obesity)
• A family history of CVI
• A personal history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the legs
• Middle-aged or older age
• Pregnancy
• Occupations or habits that involve prolonged standing or sitting

How Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency Diagnosed?

Doctors typically diagnose chronic venous insufficiency through a physical examination. During this process, they ask detailed questions about your symptoms, lifestyle, and closely inspect the appearance of your legs. Special attention is paid to the veins in your legs when you are standing or sitting with your legs dangling.

Your doctor may also recommend imaging tests. These are often performed in specialized vascular testing and diagnosis labs, such as those at Penn Medicine:

• Duplex ultrasound: A noninvasive test using sound waves to examine blood flow in the veins and help rule out other conditions like blood clots.
• CT or MRA scan: In cases where severe swelling is hard to manage, your doctor might request a CT or MRA scan to detect any blockages or narrowed veins within the abdomen and legs.

What Are The Treatments for Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

The treatment for chronic venous insufficiency typically begins with lifestyle adjustments and compression therapy. If these initial steps do not provide sufficient relief, your healthcare provider may suggest a medical procedure or surgery.

The most suitable treatment plan for you will depend on how advanced your condition is, as well as any other underlying health issues you may have. Your doctor will customize the treatment approach based on your specific needs.
The primary goals of treatment are to:

• Improve blood circulation within the veins
• Promote healing of ulcers and prevent them from recurring
• Enhance the appearance of the skin
• Alleviate pain and swelling

Lifestyle Changes

Healthcare providers often recommend starting with lifestyle changes as the first line of treatment for CVI. These changes may include:

• Elevating the legs regularly
• Engaging in appropriate exercise
• Managing body weight

Compression Therapy

Compression therapy is one of the most commonly prescribed treatments for managing CVI. It helps to reduce swelling and relieve discomfort in the legs.
There are various types of compression bandages and stockings available. Some provide stronger compression than others, and the tightest types typically require a prescription from your healthcare provider.

Medications

Medications that may be used to treat CVI include:

• Antibiotics
• Anticoagulants, or “blood thinners,” which are used to treat existing blood clots and prevent new ones from forming

Surgical and Non-Surgical Treatments

In cases where lifestyle changes, compression therapy, and medications are not enough, your doctor may recommend surgical or non-surgical procedures to address the underlying vein issues.

If you notice symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, don’t ignore them. Early medical attention, healthy lifestyle changes, and proper treatment can help manage the condition, ease discomfort, and prevent complications.