Former U.S. President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, the White House confirmed Thursday.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt shared a letter from Trump’s physician during a news conference, stating that the former president underwent a medical evaluation after noticing mild swelling in his legs. According to the physician, the condition is “benign” and “common,” especially among individuals over the age of 70.
Leavitt said Trump underwent a series of diagnostic tests, including a complete blood count, metabolic panel, and coagulation profile—all of which returned encouraging results.
“Importantly, there was no evidence of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease,” she said, reading from the physician’s letter. “An echocardiogram also confirmed normal cardiac structure and function, with no signs of heart failure, kidney issues, or systemic illness.”
Leavitt added that Trump personally directed her to disclose the findings in the interest of public transparency.
Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when the valves in the leg veins fail to function properly, allowing blood to flow backward and pool in the lower extremities. While the condition can lead to symptoms like swelling, cramping, skin changes, and ulcers if untreated, it is not considered life-threatening.
The press secretary also addressed recent public concern over photos showing discoloration on the back of Trump’s hand.
“This is consistent with minor soft tissue irritation from frequent handshaking, combined with aspirin use,” Leavitt explained. “Aspirin is part of the president’s preventive cardiovascular regimen, and such bruising is a known and harmless side effect.”
She concluded by affirming Trump’s overall health: “The president remains in excellent health, which you all witness daily.
