Amid swirling questions about President Donald Trump’s recent appearance, the White House has disclosed that he is living with a chronic vein condition that, while permanent, poses no significant health risks.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt briefed reporters on Thursday, explaining that the 79-year-old president sought medical evaluation after noticing slight swelling in his lower legs over the past few weeks. Doctors subsequently diagnosed him with chronic venous insufficiency, a condition that affects blood circulation in the veins but is generally manageable.
Concerns about Trump’s health had mounted following images showing dark bruising on his right hand. Leavitt attributed the discoloration to his daily aspirin regimen, prescribed as part of routine heart health prevention, combined with frequent handshakes during public appearances.
Trump, who began his second term in January, holds the distinction of being the oldest individual to assume the US presidency, surpassing former President Joe Biden, who left office at 82. Despite his age, he often emphasizes his vitality, sharing videos of himself on the golf course and even posing as Superman in a photo released by his team earlier this year.
Following his annual medical check-up in April, Trump assured supporters that he remained in excellent health, stating confidently that he was in “very good shape” as he continues his leadership into his ninth decade.
Questions about President Donald Trump’s health gained traction online this week after images emerged showing noticeable swelling around his ankles and bruising on his right hand during his appearance at the FIFA Club World Cup final in New Jersey.
Read also: Trump Calls On Attorney General To Reveal Credible Epstein Data
Addressing the growing speculation, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt revealed that the president had requested the release of his medical details “to maintain transparency.”
Leavitt explained that Trump recently underwent a thorough medical evaluation, including ultrasound imaging, which confirmed a diagnosis of chronic venous insufficiency. The condition, she said, is relatively common in people over 70 and is caused by weakened leg veins that struggle to keep blood circulating effectively. Despite its chronic nature, she emphasised that it is considered benign.
“There was no indication of deep vein thrombosis or any arterial disease,” she assured reporters, adding that further assessments showed Trump’s heart structure and function were normal, with no evidence of heart failure, kidney issues, or systemic illness.
When asked about the bruising on his hand, Leavitt explained that it is a harmless side effect of the president’s daily aspirin intake, prescribed as part of his cardiovascular preventive care. She also noted that frequent handshaking contributes to the discoloration.
While the White House had previously dismissed concerns about his hand bruising, attributing it simply to vigorous handshakes, the recent disclosure provided a fuller medical explanation. Leavitt concluded by affirming that the president remains in excellent overall health.