President Donald J. Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)—a common circulatory condition affecting blood flow in the legs. The announcement followed weeks of speculation about his health, triggered by visible swelling in public appearances and viral social media images.
According to Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, the diagnosis was made after a series of comprehensive vascular and cardiac tests, including Doppler ultrasounds and echocardiography. The examinations ruled out more serious conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, heart failure, and kidney disease.
Swelling Prompts Health Examination
Concerns mounted earlier this month when observers noted pronounced swelling in Mr. Trump’s lower legs and ankles during campaign events. The former president, now 79 and the presumptive Republican nominee for the 2024 presidential election, reportedly underwent medical tests at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center at the urging of his medical team.
“President Trump is in good spirits, remains physically active, and has experienced no discomfort,” said Leavitt during a press briefing. “The swelling is a benign manifestation of chronic venous insufficiency, which is manageable and not uncommon in individuals of his age.”
What Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?
Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when vein valves in the legs become weakened or damaged, causing blood to pool and increasing pressure in the veins. The result can be swelling, aching, skin discoloration, and in severe cases, ulcers. The condition is typically managed through conservative therapies, including compression stockings, physical activity, leg elevation, and, in some cases, medication.
Medical experts emphasize that while the condition is chronic, it does not inherently signal grave cardiovascular danger. “It’s a quality-of-life issue more than a mortality issue, especially in early stages,” noted Dr. Karen Feldman, a vascular medicine specialist not affiliated with Trump’s care.
Bruising on Hand Explained
In addition to the leg swelling, images circulated online earlier this week showing bruising on Mr. Trump’s right hand. The White House clarified that the marks were due to soft-tissue irritation from frequent handshakes and exacerbated by the routine use of low-dose aspirin, which is known to thin blood and increase bruising risk.
“There’s no injury or trauma behind it,” said Leavitt. “His physicians have no concerns related to cardiovascular or hematologic abnormalities.”
Transparency Amid Ongoing Scrutiny
The unusual level of transparency comes amid renewed scrutiny over the health of aging political leaders. President Trump, who would be 80 at the time of inauguration if elected in 2024, has previously faced questions over his physical stamina and cognitive fitness.
In April, a routine physical exam concluded he was “in excellent health,” though critics noted that detailed findings were not publicly released. The White House now appears to be taking a more open stance, possibly in response to persistent comparisons with President Joe Biden, 81, who withdrew from the 2024 race citing personal and health-related factors.
Despite the diagnosis, aides insist Trump’s campaign schedule will remain unchanged.
