Washington D.C: US President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a common and non-life-threatening condition affecting blood flow in the legs, the White House confirmed.
The announcement follows recent public attention on Trump’s bruised right hand and visibly swollen lower limbs, which sparked online speculation earlier this week.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed reporters, stating that the 79-year-old president had experienced mild swelling in his lower legs. A routine ultrasound confirmed the presence of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a condition in which weakened or damaged leg vein valves hinder proper blood return to the heart.
“Chronic venous insufficiency is a benign and common condition, especially in individuals over the age of 70. The president remains in excellent health,” Leavitt noted.
Presidential physician Dr. Sean Barbabella described Trump’s overall health as “excellent”. He noted that the CVI diagnosis does not involve any signs of arterial disease, a more serious circulatory condition, and poses no immediate health threat.
White House releases report from President Trump’s decorated Navy physician, Capt. Sean Barbabella, DO.
“President Trump remains in excellent health”
This is what transparency looks like! Thank you, Captain Barbabella 🫡🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/b8Gv9qPPWc
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Internist and hospitalist Dr. Matt Heinz, based in Tucson, Arizona, explained that chronic venous insufficiency is caused when vein valves lose efficiency due to aging, gravity, and often obesity. While Trump’s weight has been a concern in the past, Dr. Heinz acknowledged reports that he has been actively losing weight, which could slow the progression of the condition. Leavitt also addressed the discoloration of Trump’s right hand, attributing it to tissue irritation from frequent handshaking.
What is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?
CVI occurs when leg veins can no longer return blood efficiently to the heart, leading to symptoms that range from cosmetic to physically uncomfortable. These include:
- Aching, heavy, or tired legs
- Nighttime cramping
- Tingling or ‘pins and needles’ sensation
- Swollen ankles and feet (edema)
- Skin discoloration, flaking, or itching
- Leathery texture on legs
- Ulcers around the ankles
While not considered a life-threatening illness, untreated cases can worsen over time or lead to complications such as skin ulcers. “He remains energetic, sharp, and fully engaged,” Leavitt concluded.
