It was on July 17, 2025, that the White House announced that former US President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a relatively common condition but often underestimated—particularly in older men. The announcement followed Trump's doctors examining him for swelling in his legs and eliminating more risky conditions such as heart failure or deep vein thrombosis.

While the White House insisted there was "no evidence" of widespread illness, the report has raised questions about chronic venous insufficiency in elderly men— an illness that is often brushed off as "getting older" when it can be a symptom of more advanced vascular disease.

What is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) happens when the veins in the leg are not able to pump blood back to the heart because of the weakened or damaged vein valves. Consequently, the blood will travel backward or pool in the lower leg. This will cause swelling, leg cramps, discoloration of the skin, and, in extreme cases, ulcers.

Although the condition is prevalent worldwide, chronic venous insufficiency in elderly men is especially dire. Men over the age of 60 years will develop symptoms slowly and tend to ignore them, believing that swelling or pain is part of aging. However, CVI is not destiny — and if left untreated, it will cause serious complications.

Why Elderly Men Are Particularly Susceptible?

Let's talk about the reality: Chronic venous insufficiency in elderly men is not diagnosed because symptoms will be minimal in the early stages. Minimal swelling, occasional cramping, or varicose veins are tolerated as minor annoyances. But such "mild" symptoms most likely mark the beginning of venous disease.

Men in general are less apt to seek out a physician when they have such symptoms. Couple all that with risk factors of high blood pressure, obesity, inactivity, and previous leg injury, and you've got a cohort that's very high-risk.

Most men also have a previous job that entailed long periods of standing or heavy lifting — both of which narrow the leg veins. And yet, chronic venous insufficiency in older men doesn't make the headlines, never mind the routine check-ups.

Trump's Diagnosis: A Teachable Moment

No matter whether you're a supporter or a critic of Donald Trump, his diagnosis offers an opportunity for lesson-learning. The 79-year-old former President is the archetype: older age, little exercise, and the pressure of a high-profile life. Happily, his condition was discovered just in time, with no sign of blood clots or arterial disease.

This public alert can generate heightened awareness about chronic venous insufficiency among older men — particularly those who do not know about the symptoms or do not have an idea that the disease exists.

It's an eye-opener to the public — and particularly to men of an older generation — to be aware of common leg issues.

Typical Symptoms to Observe

Symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency include:

·         Swelling of the ankles or lower legs

·         Heaviness or tiredness in the legs

·         Painful or cramping

·         Darkening of skin near the ankles

·         Varicose veins

·         Burning or burning pain

·         Open leg sores or ulcers

These symptoms are not always present at the same time and worsen with time. Most older men endure them for years without knowing that they are living with a readily treatable medical condition.

Treatment and Prevention

Fortunately, chronic venous insufficiency in elderly men is treatable — particularly when it is caught early. Treatment usually begins with conservative strategies:

·         Compression therapy: Special stockings that help to enhance circulation

·         Lifestyle changes: Walking every day, weight management, and elevation of legs

·         Medication: To enhance circulation and reduce inflammation

·         Minimally invasive procedures: Like laser or radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy

Severe injuries may require surgery to remove or bypass damaged veins. But the sooner, the better.

Doctors recommend men over 60 with any signs of swelling, discoloration, or pain in the legs to be evaluated by a vascular medicine specialist.

Why You Ought to Learn More About Venous Health

Though frequent, chronic venous insufficiency in older men is seldom discussed in public debate. We mostly discuss heart disease, cancer, or diabetes — and rightfully so. But vascular diseases like CVI, which directly affect mobility and quality of life, are always overlooked.

Leg health affects everything from independence to sleep. CVI, if left unaddressed, can lead to chronic wounds, infection, and even hospitalization.

Trump's public diagnosis has inadvertently shed some light on this issue. Ideally, that light lasts long enough for others — especially older men — to listen to their symptoms and seek assistance.

Final Thoughts

Chronic venous insufficiency in older men is not on the front page of the newspaper most days, but it should be. As the case of the former President illustrates, even the most powerful men are not immune to this prevalent condition.

If you or a loved one is experiencing swelling, varicose veins, or pain in the legs for no apparent reason, don't brush it off. Get tested. Something can be done. And like with most illnesses, early detection is the most important.

Finally, good circulation is not just good health — it's about maintaining freedom, comfort, and dignity in the years that really matter.