What is chronic venous insufficiency that gave Donald Trump swollen ankles, bruised hands?

The White House announced that President Trump, 79, has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a vein condition which affects the circulation of blood in the legs. The diagnosis was announced to the public after pictures of his swollen ankles and bruised hands began circulating on the internet, resulting in concerns raised by observers. 

 

 

The US President was examined following the discovery of a “mild swelling” in his ankles and feet, the tests confirming his condition. Further examination revealed that the condition was benign and ruled out more serious conditions like deep vein thrombosis, arterial diseases, or kidney malfunctions.  

 

Despite the diagnosis, the White House reaffirmed the President’s health, stating that he remains “in excellent health” and “fully fit” to carry out his duties.

 

 

What exactly is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

 

 

 

Chronic Venous Insufficiency arises when the valves of one’s leg veins are damaged or do not close properly, resulting in the inability to direct the flow of blood back to the heart. This causes the blood to pool back into the legs in a situation medically termed venous reflux, leading to high pressure in the veins. 

 

The condition is quite common among older people, affecting approximately 1 in 20 adults above the age of 50. Varicose veins, oedema (swelling) of the lower legs, and persistent ulceration are some of the most identifiable symptoms of CVI. The high pressure within the veins also causes the capillaries in the leg to burst, resulting in a discolouration of the skin to a reddish-brown. 

 

White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said, in the media briefing following the announcement, that “all results are within normal limits” and went on to explain that the bruising on his hand was “consistent with frequent hand-shaking and the use of aspirin”, a claim that has been disputed by experts. 

 

 

 

 

Can the condition be cured?

 

 

 

 

There’s no actual cure for CVI since it is a chronic condition. However, when caught early, it can definitely be managed. It should start with lifestyle changes through exercise and weight management, to compression therapy, non-surgical options involving sclerotherapy, and surgical treatment through vein bypass or ligation. 

 

Compression stockings are often the first line of defence - they help push blood back up toward your heart. Simple lifestyle changes can make a huge difference too. Try to avoid sitting or standing for long periods, keep your legs elevated when you can, maintain a healthy weight, and stay active with regular walking.

 

There are medications that can help reduce swelling and improve circulation. Some doctors also recommend flavonoids, which are natural compounds that can boost blood flow.

 

For more advanced cases, there are several minimally invasive procedures available. These include sclerotherapy, laser therapy, foam sclerotherapy, radiofrequency ablation, and various types of vein ablation.

 

What are some common symptoms?

 

The symptoms are pretty noticeable once they start. Your legs might feel heavy, achy, or crampy. You’ll probably notice swelling, especially around your ankles and calves. Many people develop varicose veins that you can clearly see under the skin. As the condition progresses, your skin might start changing colour or get thicker, particularly around the ankle area. 

 

It can become itchy and scaly too. If both legs are affected, you’ll feel the heaviness and cramping in both. In severe cases, you might develop leg ulcers or open sores near your ankles. If left untreated, this can lead to chronic pain, infections, and wounds that won’t heal, which really affects your ability to get around and enjoy life.

 

 

 

 

(With inputs from Puja Awasthi)

Health