Donald Trump has been diagnosed with a common circulatory condition after recent images showed swelling in his legs and bruises on his hands.
The 79-year-old former president has chronic venous insufficiency, the White House said in a statement on Thursday.
Trump underwent medical testing after noticing swelling in his lower legs, according to Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
Reading a note from Trump’s physician, Capt Sean Barbabella, Leavitt said: “The president underwent a comprehensive examination, including diagnostic vascular studies.
Bilateral lower extremity venous Doppler ultrasounds were performed and confirmed chronic venous insufficiency.”
She said the condition is “benign and common,” particularly in people over 70, and confirmed there was no evidence of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease.
No major health concerns
Leavitt added that Trump’s lab results showed no signs of heart failure, kidney problems or any other systemic illness.
Photos taken over the weekend had prompted online speculation about his health. In one image, Trump was seen sitting next to wife Melania and FIFA President Gianni Infantino with his ankles appearing swollen and covered by dark socks.
Leavitt also addressed recent images showing bruises on Trump’s hands, saying: “This is consistent with minor soft tissue irritation from frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin,” which she said is part of his standard heart health regimen.
She stressed that the former president remains in “overall excellent health” and is not experiencing any discomfort from the condition.
What is chronic venous insufficiency?
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) occurs when veins in the legs struggle to return blood back to the heart. The condition can lead to swelling, cramping, varicose veins and skin changes, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
The Cleveland Clinic says the condition affects roughly one in 20 adults and is not usually life-threatening, although it can impact quality of life if untreated.
The White House said it would release a formal letter from Capt Barbabella outlining Trump’s diagnosis and test results.
Despite the diagnosis, Trump continues to maintain a busy schedule as he prepares for the upcoming election season.
