President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency following mild swelling in his lower legs, according to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. The announcement came during a press briefing on Thursday.
The 79-year-old president underwent an extensive medical evaluation by the White House Medical Unit after noticing the swelling in recent weeks. The examination included diagnostic vascular studies and bilateral lower extremity venous Doppler ultrasounds, which identified the condition commonly seen in people over 70 years old.
Leavitt explained that chronic venous insufficiency occurs when small valves in veins that help move blood against gravity lose their functionality over time, causing blood to pool in the legs and resulting in swelling. It is estimated to affect one in 20 adults, generally those over 50.
Dr. Sean Barbabella, the president’s physician, confirmed through testing that there was no sign of deep vein thrombosis, a more severe condition characterized by blood clots in the deep veins. The examination also ruled out issues such as arterial disease, heart failure, renal impairment, and systemic illness. All laboratory results, including complete blood count, comprehensive metabolic panel, and coagulation profile, were normal.
An echocardiogram performed during the evaluation showed normal cardiac structure and function. Leavitt noted that the president experiences no discomfort from the condition and “remains in excellent health.” She emphasized that Trump continues his rigorous work schedule without any limitations due to the diagnosis.
The announcement addressed recent speculation about Trump’s health after photos from the Club World Cup soccer final in New Jersey on July 13 showed visible swelling around his ankles. These images, circulated online, raised questions about the president’s physical condition.
Leavitt also addressed recent photos showing bruising on the back of Trump’s hand, partially concealed by makeup. She explained that the bruising was consistent with minor soft tissue irritation from frequent handshaking and Trump’s use of aspirin, which he takes to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke as part of a standard cardiovascular prevention regimen.
The condition is a relatively common medical issue among older adults. Medical experts note that chronic venous insufficiency typically results from damaged valves in leg veins that cannot effectively return blood to the heart. Risk factors include age, genetics, obesity, lack of exercise, and prolonged standing or sitting.
Treatment for chronic venous insufficiency generally focuses on improving blood flow and reducing symptoms. Common approaches include weight management, increased physical activity, leg elevation, and the use of compression stockings. Some patients may benefit from medications to increase blood flow, while more severe cases might require minor procedures or surgery.
The disclosure represents unusual transparency from Trump regarding his health information. Throughout his political career, the president has often kept basic health details private. His comprehensive physical examination in April 2025, conducted by over a dozen specialists, did not find chronic venous insufficiency. At that time, Trump’s doctor noted full range of motion in his joints and muscles with normal blood flow and no swelling.
Leavitt stated that her disclosure aimed to address speculation about Trump’s health, particularly after the visible swelling and bruising in photographs. The White House later released Barbabella’s memorandum detailing the president’s recent health evaluation, although it contained no additional information beyond what Leavitt had shared.
The diagnosis comes as Trump, who has made former President Joe Biden’s age a campaign issue, continues as the oldest person to assume the presidency. At 79, Trump is three years younger than Biden, who dropped out of the 2024 race amid pressure from his party due to age-related concerns.
While not legally obligated, it has become customary for presidents to release annual physical examination results and health details. Trump’s 2015 campaign included a letter from his physician claiming he would be “the healthiest individual ever elected to the presidency.” However, the doctor later revealed that Trump had dictated the statement.
Symptoms of the condition can include achy or tired legs, burning sensations, cramping, swelling in the lower legs and ankles, skin discoloration, and a feeling of heaviness in the legs. More severe cases may develop complications, such as lower leg ulcers, over time. Medical professionals emphasize that chronic venous insufficiency is not considered a serious health threat, though it can cause discomfort and disability in some patients.
The White House indicated that Trump’s treatment plan would be detailed in Barbabella’s forthcoming letter, though the released memorandum provided no additional specifics about therapeutic interventions. The president’s current health status, according to his medical team, shows no signs of complications typically associated with more serious vascular conditions.
