Chronic venous insufficiency: Symptoms and treatment of condition hitting Donald Trump

The White House has confirmed that President Donald Trump is suffering from chronic venous insufficiency, with the diagnosis being made public on Thursday.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced that the 79 year old former president had undergone medical evaluation following "mild swelling" in his lower legs. The Independent has reported that although the condition isn't life-threatening, it could lead to significant discomfort and disability if not addressed.

Chronic venous insufficiency is a circulatory issue where veins in the legs fail to efficiently return blood to the heart, often due to faulty vein valves which cause blood to leak backwards and accumulate in the legs, as per Johns Hopkins Medicine. The news comes on the day that Trump instructed Attorney General Pam Bondi to release produce "any and all" grand jury testimony related to the sex trafficking case against Jeffrey Epstein.

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"Normally, the valves in your veins make sure that blood flows toward your heart. But when these valves don't work well, blood can also flow backwards. This can cause blood to collect (pool) in your legs," Johns Hopkins Medicine detailed.

Without treatment, individuals may experience symptoms such as swelling, pain, muscle cramps, changes in skin colour, varicose veins, and potentially leg ulcers, reports the Express.

While it predominantly affects those aged over 70, it can also impact pregnant individuals, those who are overweight, or anyone with a family history of venous issues.

Previous injuries, surgeries, or blood clots can heighten the risk.

Additional factors that might contribute to the development of this condition include long periods of immobility, smoking, lack of exercise, high pressure in the leg veins due to standing or sitting for extended times, or inflammation of the veins just beneath the skin.

Symptoms vary from puffy legs and ankles to a sensation of tightness in the calves, itchiness, varicose veins, and even painful cramps or restless leg syndrome.

Leavitt affirmed that extensive testing by the White House medical team revealed "no evidence of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease," confirming that blood clots were not a concern.

Medical professionals usually recommend compression stockings and regular physical activity to enhance blood flow for treating the condition.

In severe instances, medication or medical interventions might be required.