President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a common vein condition in older adults, after he noticed swelling in his legs that sparked public speculation about his health, the White House announced Thursday.
Trump, 79, underwent medical testing by the White House medical unit after observing “mild swelling” in his lower legs over recent weeks, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said during a briefing.
Capt. Sean Barbabella, the president’s physician, said bilateral ultrasounds revealed the condition, which occurs when leg veins struggle to return blood to the heart efficiently. The condition is “benign and common, particularly in individuals over the age of 70,” according to a memo released by the White House.
The White House made the announcement after photographs from last weekend’s soccer match showed Trump with visibly swollen ankles, which, not surprisingly, sparked online discussion.
Testing ruled out more serious conditions including deep vein thrombosis and arterial disease. An echocardiogram showed normal heart function with no signs of heart failure or other systemic illness, the White House said.
Leavitt also addressed visible bruising on the back of Trump’s hand that has appeared in recent photographs, some showing what appeared to be makeup covering the marks. She attributed the bruising to “minor soft tissue irritation from frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin” as part of Trump’s cardiovascular prevention regimen.
“The president remains in excellent health,” Barbabella wrote in his medical assessment.
Trump had his most recent comprehensive physical examination in April, with the White House reporting he was in excellent health. However, the chronic venous insufficiency diagnosis was not mentioned in that earlier report.
As the oldest person to serve as president, Trump’s health has been subject to scrutiny throughout his political career. He has historically been reluctant to release detailed medical records, a practice that has become standard for presidential candidates.
The White House said Trump will continue his regular duties and that the condition does not affect his ability to serve as president. Meanwhile, the internet:
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