The White House has released a formal medical update confirming that President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a common circulatory condition. The announcement follows recent public speculation regarding noticeable swelling in the President’s lower legs and ankles.
In a press briefing on Thursday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed the findings, emphasizing that the condition is manageable, non-life-threatening, and typical for individuals in the President’s age group.
Medical Evaluation and Findings
The diagnosis was the result of a targeted medical evaluation prompted by “mild swelling” in the President’s lower extremities. According to a memorandum released by the President’s physician, Dr. Sean Barbabella, the White House medical unit conducted a series of vascular tests to ensure a thorough assessment.
The evaluation included:
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Bilateral lower extremity venous Doppler ultrasounds: These tests confirmed the presence of CVI while ruling out more serious complications.
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Diagnostic vascular studies: Results showed no evidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), blood clots, or arterial disease.
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Comprehensive laboratory panels: Blood work and cardiac biomarkers were reported to be within normal limits.
“The President underwent a comprehensive examination out of an abundance of caution,” Leavitt told reporters. “The results were clear: this is a benign and common condition, particularly for those over the age of 70.”
Understanding Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when the valves in the leg veins do not function efficiently, making it difficult for blood to return to the heart from the lower extremities. This can cause blood to “pool,” resulting in the swelling (edema) observed in recent weeks.
Medical experts note that CVI is widespread, affecting approximately one in three adults in the United States. While it can cause discomfort or a feeling of heaviness in the legs, it does not typically impair physical activity or cognitive function when managed properly.
Hand Bruising Explained
During the briefing, Leavitt also addressed questions regarding visible bruising on the back of the President’s hand seen in recent photographs. Officials clarified that the bruising is unrelated to the CVI diagnosis.
Instead, medical staff attributed the marks to a combination of frequent handshaking and the President’s routine use of aspirin as part of a standard cardiovascular prevention regimen. Aspirin is known to thin the blood, making minor soft-tissue irritation more visible.
Impact on Official Duties
The White House has been firm in its stance that the diagnosis will not impact the President’s schedule or his ability to lead. Dr. Barbabella’s memo described the President’s overall health as “excellent,” noting that an echocardiogram showed normal cardiac structure and function.
“There have been no recommendations to change the President’s daily schedule or professional responsibilities,” Leavitt stated. Standard management for CVI often includes simple lifestyle adjustments, such as regular movement, leg elevation, and the use of compression garments.
The disclosure follows a pattern of medical transparency from the administration following public observations. Major news outlets have noted that the diagnosis is consistent with the health profiles of many active seniors and does not signal an acute medical emergency.
