The White House announced Thursday that President Donald Trump, 79, has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency after doctors examined mild swelling in both legs.
According to press secretary Karoline Leavitt, the president underwent a thorough evaluation by the White House Medical Unit, including vascular imaging. In a letter from physician Capt. Sean Barbabella, bilateral Doppler ultrasounds confirmed the presence of chronic venous insufficiency—a common, generally benign issue in people over 70.
Barbabella’s report emphasized that no deep‑vein thrombosis or arterial disease was detected and that laboratory results were normal. An echocardiogram showed no evidence of heart failure, kidney problems, or systemic illness.
This condition occurs when valves in leg veins fail to close properly, leading to blood pooling. Roughly 150 000 Americans are diagnosed annually, with risk increasing alongside age. Typical symptoms include ankle or lower‑leg swelling, aching, cramping, varicose veins, and skin changes. Treatment may range from medication to minimally invasive procedures.
Harvard emergency physician Dr. Jeremy Faust called the finding “unsurprising” for an older, overweight individual, noting the importance of ruling out more serious problems—as Trump’s team did. Cardiologist Dr. Bernard Ashby added that underlying issues such as elevated heart or lung pressures can contribute and should be monitored.
Age, excess weight, and prolonged inactivity heighten the likelihood of venous insufficiency, explained public‑health specialist Dr. Chris Pernell. While not life‑threatening, the condition can become debilitating if unmanaged.
Leavitt said the president feels “no discomfort.” Bruising on Trump’s hand, attributed to frequent handshakes and routine aspirin use, was deemed minor soft‑tissue irritation by Barbabella.
Barbabella concluded that President Trump “remains in excellent health.” Assuming a second term, he would become the oldest president in U.S. history.
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