Trump Diagnosed with Chronic Venous Insufficiency, Docs Say \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed concerns over swelling in Donald Trump’s ankles. Medical tests ruled out serious conditions like blood clots, diagnosing him with chronic venous insufficiency. Leavitt also explained a makeup-covered hand bruise as irritation from handshaking and aspirin.
Quick Looks
- Trump was evaluated after noticing ankle swelling.
- Tests ruled out deep vein thrombosis and arterial disease.
- Diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, common in elderly.
- Health guidance includes walking, leg elevation, weight management.
- Bruised hand covered with makeup linked to aspirin, handshaking.
- No serious health risks; overall condition deemed excellent.
- Doctor’s letter will be released publicly.
Deep Look
In a proactive move to address growing speculation over President Donald Trump’s visible health symptoms, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt publicly read a physician’s letter on Thursday detailing the results of a medical evaluation. The statement was intended to calm concerns surrounding swelling observed in President Trump’s ankles and a bruised hand that appeared to be masked with makeup during recent public appearances.
Leavitt began by stating that President Trump himself noticed “mild swelling” in his lower legs, prompting an assessment by the White House Medical Unit. After undergoing a series of diagnostic tests, physicians concluded that there was no evidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or arterial disease—two potentially serious conditions that can cause leg swelling or discomfort in older adults.
Instead, the medical team diagnosed the President with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a circulatory condition where weakened or damaged vein valves in the legs fail to properly return blood to the heart. This allows blood to pool in the veins of the lower legs, resulting in swelling, discomfort, and sometimes visible changes to the skin. Leavitt clarified that this is a very common condition in older populations, and especially prevalent in individuals over 70 years old. President Trump, who turned 79 last month, falls squarely into this demographic.
According to medical literature, chronic venous insufficiency is not typically life-threatening but requires management to avoid progression. Treatment plans often include lifestyle adjustments such as weight reduction, routine walking or low-impact exercise, elevating the legs when sitting or lying down, and sometimes the use of compression stockings to encourage blood flow. If left unmanaged, CVI can lead to complications including skin thickening, varicose veins, or even the development of painful venous ulcers on the lower legs.
Leavitt emphasized that the President’s condition is “not unusual” for someone of his age and that no signs of more dangerous complications like blood clots were found. “All tests have ruled out deep vein thrombosis, and there is no evidence of arterial disease,” she reiterated.
In addition to addressing Trump’s lower leg condition, Leavitt also explained recent images showing a noticeable bruise on the President’s right hand, which appeared to be concealed under makeup during several campaign events. She said that medical staff believe the bruising is consistent with irritation caused by “frequent handshaking” and the daily use of aspirin, which is commonly prescribed to reduce the risk of heart attacks or strokes due to its blood-thinning effects.
“Aspirin can lead to minor bruising, especially when combined with frequent physical contact like handshaking,” Leavitt said, dismissing more serious speculation regarding the cause of the discoloration.
Despite these visible issues, Leavitt confidently stated that “the President remains in excellent health.” She said that his doctors have no significant concerns and that his current condition does not impact his ability to carry out the duties of the presidency. She also committed to full transparency, stating that the President’s medical letter would be released in its entirety for public review.
This announcement comes at a crucial moment, as President Trump continues to campaign for re-election while serving his second non-consecutive term in the White House. With both major party candidates now in their late 70s or older, questions about physical and cognitive health have become a central issue in the 2024–2025 political discourse.
Health disclosures for sitting presidents have always attracted scrutiny, particularly when visible symptoms spark public curiosity or concern. Trump’s team has historically emphasized his physical stamina and mental sharpness, often contrasting them with perceived frailty in his political opponents.
While critics argue that even mild symptoms like swelling or bruising merit deeper analysis, Trump’s allies insist that transparency around these health developments further reinforces his campaign narrative of strength, endurance, and readiness to serve. As Leavitt concluded her briefing, she reiterated that “President Trump is fully capable, actively engaged, and continues to lead the country with vigor and resolve.”
The forthcoming release of the physician’s letter is expected to provide additional details and potentially quell further speculation. For now, the White House message is clear: President Trump’s health remains solid, and his symptoms—though visible—are medically benign and well-managed.
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