Former President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, as announced by the White House. The condition, which affects blood flow in the legs, follows public concern after photos surfaced depicting bruises on Trump's hands. According to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, this diagnosis followed recent swelling in Trump's legs and was confirmed through a comprehensive vascular exam.
Leavitt explained that the bruising on Trump's hands is likely due to "tissue damage from frequent handshaking" compounded by his use of aspirin, a common blood thinner linked to increased bruising. At 79 years old, Trump has frequently emphasized his health and fitness, previously calling himself "the healthiest president ever."
Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when leg veins struggle to send blood back to the heart effectively, leading to blood pooling in lower limbs, which can cause swelling. Dr. Meryl Logan, a vascular surgery professor, noted that this issue tends to affect individuals over the age of 70. Leavitt reassured the public that there were "no signs of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease" and that Trump's overall health remains "excellent."
Photographs captured Trump's swollen legs during a FIFA event in July and revealed bruising during a meeting with Bahraini Prime Minister Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. Prior to this, a bruise had been seen during a visit with French President Emmanuel Macron in February. Speculation surrounding these visual cues had led to questions about Trump's health.
Following an annual physical exam in April, Trump's doctor Sean Barbabella confirmed he has exhibited both cognitive and physical health, stating that chronic venous insufficiency is a common and typically benign condition, particularly in older adults. Doctors estimate that between 10% and 35% of individuals in Trump's age group have this ailment.
Experts recommend several management strategies, including the use of medical-grade compression stockings and elevating the legs to alleviate symptoms. They also emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy weight and skin care on the lower extremities.
While chronic venous insufficiency is limited to the legs, the bruises on Trump's hands are attributed to the effects of his aspirin regimen and the physical nature of handshaking. Dr. Edwards concurred that increased age and the use of blood thinners could explain the observed bruising, underscoring that older age often results in more pronounced bruising from minor physical impacts.
