President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a common condition in older adults in which blood struggles to flow back from the legs to the heart. The condition is not life-threatening, and the president is in “excellent health” despite the diagnosis, according to his physician. However, for people living with or at risk for heart disease, CVI can signal underlying vein health problems.

What Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

CVI occurs when tiny one-way valves in the veins of the legs become weak or damaged. These valves normally help push blood upward toward the heart. But when they stop working properly, blood pools in the lower legs, leading to symptoms like swelling, heaviness, aching, skin discoloration, and even ulcers (open sores) over time.

In the president’s case, recent swelling in his lower legs led to a full vascular evaluation by the White House medical unit. Tests confirmed CVI but ruled out more serious conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), arterial disease, and heart failure.

While Trump’s medical team reported that he experienced no discomfort or complications, CVI can progress over time. Left unmanaged, it may lead to chronic swelling, skin changes, or painful venous ulcers. However, with early intervention — such as wearing compression socks, elevating the legs, staying physically active, and maintaining a healthy weight — symptoms can be controlled and quality of life preserved.

Why CVI Awareness Matters if You’re Living With Heart Disease

Although CVI affects the veins and not the heart directly, it’s part of a broader picture of vascular health. People with heart disease often face related circulation issues, such as hypertension (high blood pressure), fluid retention, or a history of blood clots. All of these can increase the risk of CVI — or make its symptoms worse.

It’s important to recognize early signs, which may include:

• Swelling in the lower legs or ankles that worsens with standing
• A feeling of heaviness or fatigue in the legs
• Itchy, dry, or discolored skin near the ankles
• Varicose veins (veins that appear enlarged and twisted)
• Slow-healing sores near the ankles or shins, which can be painful and become infected

If you experience these symptoms — especially if you already live with heart disease — talk to your cardiologist or primary care provider. A simple ultrasound can evaluate how well blood is flowing through your leg veins. Early detection allows for lifestyle changes and treatment that can help prevent more serious complications.

Learn more about potential causes of swollen legs from heart disease.

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On MyHeartDiseaseTeam, the social network for people living with heart disease and their loved ones, members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with cardiovascular conditions.

Have you experienced leg swelling or vein issues? How have you managed them? Share your experience in a comment below, start a conversation on your Activities page, or connect with others in Groups.