The White House has confirmed that President Donald Trump, 79, has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a condition that impairs blood flow in the legs. This diagnosis follows recent reports of swelling in Trump's legs and visible bruises. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed these concerns during a press briefing, stating that Trump underwent various tests, including vascular studies and an ultrasound of his legs, to investigate the swelling.
Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when the veins in the legs are unable to effectively return blood to the heart, often due to damaged valves. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, this condition affects approximately 5% of adults. While not life-threatening, untreated chronic venous insufficiency can lead to complications such as leg ulcers and blood clots.
Leavitt noted that the swelling observed is not currently causing Trump any discomfort and also clarified that tests ruled out serious conditions, including deep vein thrombosis and arterial disease. The results of an echocardiogram indicated that the President's heart function and structure are normal.
Additionally, Leavitt attributed some of the bruising on Trump's hands to frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin. She emphasized that Trump's overall health remains good, and further details will be provided through a memo from his physician.
Trump's last annual physical, conducted in April at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, reported that he was in "excellent health." The White House continues to monitor Trump's condition while assuring the public of his well-being.