Chronic venous insufficiency explained as Trump diagnosed with condition after swelling discovered on his legs
It was confirmed yesterday that Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, but what is it exactly and what does it mean for the president's health?
There's been no doubt that the 79-year-old's return to the Oval Office has been a hectic one, with his controversial tariffs, the bombing of Iran and the LA riots all happening in the last few months alone.
As the oldest inaugurated president in history, Trump was perhaps always likely to face some health problems throughout his second term, even if he wasn't all that sympathetic when his predecessor Joe Biden was diagnosed with prostate cancer earlier this year.
Donald Trump's recent diagnosis
The president had been spotted with bruises on his hands and swollen ankles in recent times, but the White House reaffirmed their suggestion that Trump's bruising was down to the sheer number of hands he had been shaking, and given his aggressive handshake style, that was almost believable.
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But reporters were informed yesterday by Trump's press secretary Karoline Leavitt that the president has officially been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency.
She said: "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.
"Importantly, there was no evidence of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease."
What is Chronic venous insufficiency?
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) occurs when veins in your legs are damaged. As a result, these veins can’t manage blood flow as well as they should, and it’s harder for blood in your legs to return to your heart.
The condition isn't life threatening and affects one in 20 people over the age of 50 but it can be painful, with Trump likely to experience swelling, skin discolouration and potentially ulcers.
What causes it?
Trump is a man who spends a lot of his time sitting down, whether it be in the Oval Office, on his private jets or apparently watching his new favourite sport at the Club World Cup and that's something which can contribute to CVI.
High blood pressure in the leg veins over time, due to sitting or standing for long periods, is said to be one of the main causes of the condition, while a lack of exercise and being overweight are also contributing factors.
What are the symptoms?
Other than the previously mentioned swelling, skin discolouration and ulcers, people with CVI can also suffer from varicose veins and cramps.
Although it can lead to deep vein thrombosis, Trump's press secretary suggested that wasn't an issue and claimed that the president was in otherwise excellent health.
"The president remains in excellent health, which I think all of you witness on a daily basis here", she said.
How is it managed?
There’s no specific treatment for chronic venous insufficiency. Wearing compression stockings and elevating legs can be helpful, according to experts.
Blood thinners can also help prevent blood clots from forming. Trump already takes aspirin, a blood thinner, according to his medical records, but more walking to help managed the blood flow in your legs is also recommended.
Topics: Donald Trump, Health
James Moorhouse