At 79, the U.S. President Is Facing a Common Yet Manageable Vein Condition.
President Donald Trump, age 79, has been diagnosed with Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)—a condition that affects blood flow in the legs, causing swelling and discomfort.
The announcement was made on July 17 by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, who shared a note from Trump’s physician, Capt. Sean Barbabella:
“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.”
What Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?
- CVI occurs when leg veins cannot efficiently return blood to the heart, leading to blood pooling in the lower limbs.
- It often causes swelling, aching, heaviness, and skin changes.
- Trump, who turned 79 in June, is in a higher-risk age group for the condition.
Dr. Chris Pernell explained to CNN:
“Older age, excess weight, limited physical activity, or prolonged sitting/standing increases the risk of chronic venous insufficiency.”
Common Symptoms of CVI
According to the Cleveland Clinic, symptoms may include:
- Achy or tired legs
- Swelling in lower legs or ankles (worse after long standing)
- Nighttime leg cramps
- Skin discoloration or leathery texture
- Tingling or burning sensations
- Itchy, flaky skin
- Heaviness in the legs
- Varicose veins
- Open sores or ulcers near the ankles
Is CVI Dangerous?
- CVI is usually benign and treatable, but untreated cases can lead to:
- Postphlebitic syndrome (a complication after deep vein thrombosis)
- Venous ulcers, which are painful open sores near the ankles
How Common Is It?
- About 10–35% of adults in the U.S. suffer from CVI.
- Each year, over 150,000 new cases are diagnosed, especially in those over 70.
Risk factors include:
- Aging
- Family history of varicose veins
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Sedentary lifestyle
Managing CVI: What Helps?
Experts recommend lifestyle changes and preventive care:
✅ Avoid prolonged sitting or standing – Move or stretch every 30 minutes
✅ Elevate your legs – Keep them raised above heart level when resting
✅ Stay active – Walking improves blood circulation
✅ Maintain a healthy weight – Reduces vein pressure
✅ Moisturize your skin – Prevent cracks and irritation
✅ Monitor symptoms – Watch for swelling, ulcers, or discoloration
✅ Use compression stockings – As prescribed, they reduce swelling and support blood flow
What Does This Mean for President Trump?
- CVI is not life-threatening, but requires proper management to prevent complications.
- With regular care, lifestyle adjustments, and medical follow-ups, President Trump can continue his duties without major disruption.
Disclaimer : This report is based on publicly available information from the White House press briefing and medical statements. It is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. For accurate diagnosis or treatment, always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
