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 obesity or carrying extra weight, CVI can be more common — and more complicated to manage.

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. 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 Trump’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 Obesity

CVI and obesity are closely linked. Carrying extra weight can put more pressure on the veins in your legs, making it harder for blood to move upward. Over time, this added strain can weaken the vein valves and lead to or worsen CVI. People with obesity may also have reduced mobility or longer periods of sitting, which can further increase the risk.

It’s important to recognize early signs of CVI, 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’re living with obesity or limited mobility — talk to your doctor. A simple ultrasound can check how well blood is flowing through your leg veins. Early detection and consistent care can help prevent more serious complications and improve comfort.

Learn more about the potential causes of swollen legs from obesity.

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