Following growing speculation over visible swelling in his legs and bruising on his hands, former President Donald Trump has confirmed he’s been diagnosed with a chronic vein condition.
At 79, Trump has been repeatedly photographed with swollen ankles and discolored hands, prompting widespread concern and online debate about his health. While Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt initially downplayed the symptoms in February—attributing the bruising to “frequent handshaking”—the continued appearance of swelling led to further medical evaluations.
Now, Leavitt has officially confirmed that Trump is suffering from chronic venous insufficiency—a common and generally benign condition that affects blood flow in the legs.
At a press conference held earlier today (July 17), White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed mounting public concern over Donald Trump’s health, confirming that the former president has undergone a series of medical tests following visible swelling in his legs and a bruise on the back of his right hand.
“The president underwent a comprehensive examination, including diagnostic vascular studies,” Leavitt announced. “Bilateral lower extremity venous Doppler ultrasounds were performed, which confirmed chronic venous insufficiency—a benign and common condition, especially in individuals over the age of 70.”
Crucially, she emphasized that doctors found no signs of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease, alleviating fears of more serious circulatory issues.
Leavitt also noted that Trump had additional laboratory testing, including cardiac evaluations, a complete blood count, and a full metabolic panel. “All results were within normal limits,” she assured reporters.
The update is expected to quell health concerns that have followed Trump in recent months as images showing ankle swelling and bruising circulated online.
What Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a circulatory disorder that disrupts the normal flow of blood from the legs back to the heart. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the condition is caused by damaged or weakened leg veins, making it harder for blood to travel upward, leading to pooling and pressure in the lower limbs.
Common symptoms include varicose veins, lower leg swelling (edema), and a sensation of heaviness or fullness in the legs. While it can affect anyone, CVI is most prevalent in people over the age of 50—and the risk increases with age.
Treatment typically focuses on improving blood flow from the legs. Depending on the severity, doctors may recommend lifestyle adjustments, compression socks, or surgical interventions.
Trump Joins List of Politicians Facing Health Challenges
Trump’s diagnosis comes just weeks after another major health announcement from the White House. In May, President Joe Biden revealed he had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer.
“Last week, President Joe Biden was seen for a new finding of a prostate nodule after experiencing increasing urinary symptoms. On Friday, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, characterized by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone,” read a statement from the Biden family at the time.
Despite the serious nature of the diagnosis, doctors remain hopeful. “While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective management,” the statement added. “The President and his family are reviewing treatment options with his physicians.”