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U.S President Donald Trump's health is a frequent topic of curiosity, but a lesser-known chronic condition that reportedly affects him, Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI), is now making headlines. According to experts interviewed by HOLA!, CVI isn't just about unsightly veins; it's a progressive disease with potential long-term complications if left untreated.
While Trump's specific symptoms have not been publicly detailed, the condition itself is all too familiar for millions of Americans, especially those over 50. In fact, CVI is one of the most underdiagnosed yet visibly progressive circulatory disorders. Commonly known for swollen ankles, skin changes, and leg ulcers.
So what exactly is CVI, how is it diagnosed, and what can be done to manage it? HOLA! spoke to three top medical experts, including Dr. Stewart Parnacott, Dr. Tonie Reincke, and Dr. Otulana, who broke down the truth about this chronic vein disease that cannot go away but can be controlled.
What Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency, Really?
"Chronic Venous Insufficiency, often called CVI, is when the veins in the legs cannot move blood back to the heart the way they should," explains Dr. Stewart Parnacott, a PhD and Doctor of Functional Medicine. "The valves weaken, and blood starts to settle in the lower legs. Varicose veins are one part of it, but CVI can cause far more, including swelling, changes in the color and texture of the skin, and wounds that take far too long to heal are common signs as the disease progresses."
One of the key early symptoms is swollen ankles after standing for long periods. "A sense of heaviness or aching in the calves is often the next sign," he adds. "The skin may start to itch, feel tight, or take on a reddish-brown tone." That's a big red flag—your circulation is slowing down, and your veins are under stress.
CVI doesn't show up overnight. It's often gradual and worsens over time, especially without treatment. According to Dr. Tonie Reincke, a vein specialist from the Reincke Vein Center, "CVI will slowly worsen over time, both symptoms and signs. Often, there is overlap with lymphedema, restless leg syndrome, and night cramps."
The Tests That Reveal the Truth
All three experts agreed: duplex ultrasound is the go-to test. "It's the most useful and noninvasive test," says Dr. Otulana, a general physician and addiction specialist. "It allows us to see the structure of the veins and assess how well the valves are functioning."
Dr. Parnacott backs this up: "A vein ultrasound is the main tool. A physical exam starts the process, but the ultrasound shows whether the valves are leaking and how blood is flowing."
Once diagnosed, the next step isn't always surgery. Most patients start with conservative treatment.
Lifestyle Changes: Your First Line of Defense
Dr. Otulana emphasizes the power of simple daily habits: "Walking regularly helps the calf muscles pump blood upwards. Keeping your weight in a healthy range is important, as excess weight increases pressure on leg veins. Avoiding long periods of standing or sitting without movement is key."
Dr. Parnacott says, "Compression reduces swelling. Elevating the legs and staying at a healthy weight ease the workload on the veins." And hydration? Yes, that, too. Dr. Reincke advises that "Exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying hydrated" are essential for symptom management.
When It's Time to Treat the Veins Directly
If symptoms interfere with quality of life or if skin starts to break down, procedures may be needed. "Ablations are catheter-based procedures to heat and seal veins. Sclerotherapy involves injecting FDA-approved chemicals under ultrasound guidance," says Dr. Reincke. "We also use glue in some cases."
Dr. Otulana agrees: "Treatment can range from conservative measures to more active interventions like sclerotherapy, laser treatments, or vein ablation. In some cases, surgery may be necessary."
The results are usually excellent, but there's a catch.
The "Forever Condition"
Many don't realize that CVI isn't curable. It's chronic, and that means consistent follow-up care is key. "The Patient should be educated that vein disease, CVI, is treatable but not curable, and other veins may need treatments in the future," Dr. Reincke explains.
That's why Dr. Otulana stresses follow-up: "The minimally invasive options tend to have good long-term outcomes when paired with lifestyle changes, but the underlying tendency can remain."
Dr. Parnacott puts it clearly: "After treatment, staying active, controlling weight, using compression when needed, and scheduling a follow-up with a vein specialist every six to twelve months help keep it from coming back."
Why This Matters—Even If You're Not Trump
CVI affects over 30 million people in the U.S., and most go undiagnosed. It's not just a cosmetic issue, and it's not something to brush off as "just swelling." Left untreated, CVI can lead to infections, non-healing ulcers, and even blood clots.
"People with CVI may also have a higher risk for cellulitis due to fluid retention and skin breakdown," warns Dr. Otulana.
So, whether you're a president or just someone noticing your legs ache a little too much after a day at work, get checked. Talk to your doctor. Ask for an ultrasound. CVI may not be curable, but it's very treatable, and catching it early makes all the difference.