U.S. President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with a common and non-serious vein condition following public speculation over visible swelling in his legs and bruising on his hand. The White House confirmed on Thursday that the 79-year-old president has chronic venous insufficiency, a benign condition affecting blood flow in the legs.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that the diagnosis followed “mild swelling” noticed in President Trump’s lower legs in recent weeks. The president was examined by the White House medical team “out of an abundance of caution.”
“Ultrasound tests revealed chronic venous insufficiency, a benign and common condition, particularly in individuals over the age of 70,” Leavitt said. She emphasized that the condition does not pose a serious health risk, adding, “Importantly, there was no evidence of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease.”
Presidential physician Dr. Sean Barbabella also released a letter confirming the diagnosis and stating that President Trump “remains in excellent health.” He noted that the president’s heart, kidney, and overall systemic health are normal, with no signs of heart failure or other serious complications.
The discoloration seen on the president’s right hand was attributed to “tissue irritation from frequent handshaking” and the use of aspirin therapy, which is commonly prescribed for cardiovascular health. “This is a well-known and benign side effect of aspirin,” Leavitt said.
Public interest in President Trump’s health intensified after he was seen with swollen ankles during an appearance at the FIFA Club World Cup final in New Jersey. The bruising on his hand, often seen under what appeared to be make-up, had previously been dismissed by the White House as a result of vigorous handshaking.
Trump, who became the oldest person to assume the U.S. presidency when he took office in January, has frequently touted his physical fitness and energy. His administration recently released a digitally altered image portraying him as Superman, underscoring his efforts to project vitality.
The health of U.S. presidents is always under close scrutiny, particularly in recent years with both Trump and his predecessor Joe Biden being the two oldest presidents in American history. Biden, who was 82 when he left office in January, faced intense questions about his mental and physical condition during the 2024 election campaign. He ultimately dropped his bid for re-election following a poor debate performance against Trump.
While Trump’s condition is considered minor, doctors say treatment will likely involve non-invasive approaches such as compression socks and increased physical activity. Dr. Matt Heinz, a hospital physician from Arizona, described the diagnosis as “pretty common” in older adults, caused by weakened vein valves that affect blood flow in the legs.
The White House said Trump requested the diagnosis be made public “in the effort of transparency.”
