CVI is common among older adults, but requires a thorough checkup to rule out more serious causes of leg swelling

Donald Trump was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, the White House said on Thursday, after he noticed swelling in his legs.

Chronic venous insufficiency, or CVI, happens when veins in the legs cannot properly carry blood back to the heart. That can lead to blood pooling in the lower legs. In addition to swelling, usually around the feet and ankles, symptoms can include legs that are achy, heavy-feeling or tingly, and varicose veins. Severe cases could trigger leg sores known as ulcers.

Doctors must rule out serious causes of leg swelling, such as heart problems, kidney disease or blood clots.