It’s the cause of the bruises on his hands
President Trump Diagnosed with Chronic Venous Insufficiency After Noticing Leg Swelling
Former President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with a chronic vascular condition known as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), the White House announced on Thursday. The news comes after recent public appearances where the 79-year-old leader was seen with noticeable swelling in his lower legs and bruises on his hands, prompting questions about his health.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed the concerns during a media briefing, reading a letter from the President’s physician. “The president underwent a comprehensive examination, including diagnostic vascular studies,” Leavitt said. “Bilateral lower extremity venous Doppler ultrasounds were performed and confirmed chronic venous insufficiency — a benign and common condition, particularly in individuals over the age of 70.”
Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when the veins in the legs are unable to efficiently return blood to the heart, leading to pooling of blood, leg swelling, skin changes, and sometimes ulcers. Although the condition is not life-threatening, it can lead to discomfort and requires ongoing management.
Medical professionals emphasize that CVI is a manageable condition, especially with early detection and the right interventions. Treatments may include lifestyle modifications such as elevating the legs, wearing compression stockings, regular physical activity, and in some cases, medications or minor surgical procedures.
A senior White House official assured reporters that Trump’s diagnosis does not interfere with his ability to serve or carry out his duties. “The president remains in good spirits and is fully capable of fulfilling his responsibilities. He continues to maintain a rigorous schedule and has not experienced any complications beyond the reported symptoms.”
The announcement comes at a politically sensitive time as Trump is actively campaigning ahead of the 2024 presidential election. Health concerns are often magnified during election seasons, especially for older candidates. Trump, who would be 80 by the time of inauguration if re-elected, has faced scrutiny over his age and overall fitness for office — a debate that has also surrounded political rivals.
Dr. Sarah Jennings, a vascular specialist at the Cleveland Clinic, commented on the diagnosis: “Chronic venous insufficiency is incredibly common in older adults and is generally more of a quality-of-life issue than a major health threat. With proper care and management, patients can lead completely normal, active lives.”
While some critics have speculated about the visible bruising on Trump’s hands, the White House has not directly addressed those concerns, stating only that all symptoms were part of the comprehensive medical evaluation.
The president’s medical team has committed to monitoring his condition closely and updating the public as necessary. In the meantime, Trump is expected to resume public appearances and campaign events as scheduled, albeit with some minor modifications to ensure proper leg support and circulation.
Despite the diagnosis, aides close to Trump say he remains “energetic and focused,” determined to push forward in his bid for a second term.
Despite this diagnosis, Trump’s condition is considered to be mild as there is “no evidence of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease.”
Essentially the condition occurs when your leg veins don’t allow enough blood to flow back to your heart, which has caused the bruising and swelling many have noticed in images of Trump.
While chronic in nature, the condition can be eased by medication.
Trump’s diagnosis comes just months after it was revealed his former election rival Joe Biden was diagnosed with cancer.
