Edith Hejberg
Health fears surrounding President Donald Trump intensified last month after doctors diagnosed him with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).
The White House confirmed the condition after medical staff noticed “mild swelling” in his legs, sparking a wave of public interest in this often-overlooked disease.
What Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?
CVI is a circulatory disorder caused by damaged leg veins, making it harder for blood to return to the heart.
This can lead to swelling, visible veins, heaviness, and persistent discomfort in the legs. While not usually life-threatening, the condition can significantly affect quality of life if left untreated.
One Woman’s Daily Battle With CVI
Mariya Ali, a 47-year-old research technologist from Cleveland, Ohio, lives with the same condition as Trump.
She says she wakes up every day with pain and fatigue. “Even though it’s in my legs, it feels like my whole body is tired before the day even begins,” she explained.
A Lifetime of Symptoms
Mariya first noticed prominent veins in her teens but assumed they were due to her fair skin.
Over time, symptoms worsened more veins appeared, heaviness in her legs increased, and fatigue became a constant companion. She finally received a diagnosis earlier this year.
Living With the Pain
Daily life with CVI can be exhausting. Mariya describes a heaviness in her legs “like I’ve been walking all day,” even after waking up.
The condition can radiate discomfort throughout the body, leaving sufferers drained both physically and mentally.
Ongoing Treatment and Management
Since her diagnosis in January, Mariya has been undergoing laser treatments to improve circulation.
She also wears medical compression tights daily, a key part of managing the swelling and discomfort associated with CVI.
Trump’s Diagnosis Raises Awareness
Mariya credits Trump’s public disclosure with helping to shine a light on CVI.
She believes high-profile figures can play a crucial role in educating the public and pushing for better research funding for conditions that often fly under the radar.
The Scope of the Condition in the U.S.
An estimated 25 million adults in America live with CVI, according to health experts.
Many may not even realise they have it, attributing early symptoms to tiredness, ageing, or lifestyle factors rather than a chronic medical condition.
The Emotional Impact of a Diagnosis
For Mariya, finally getting a name for her condition brought a sense of relief.
“When you’ve been dealing with something for years, it’s validating to finally know what it is,” she said. Still, she admits the reality of a lifelong condition can be daunting.
A Call for Advocacy and Support
Mariya believes that public figures like Trump have a responsibility to raise awareness and advocate for medical research.
“If you’re in a position to influence public understanding, you should use it,” she said. Her hope is that more people will recognise the symptoms early and seek help.
