Former U.S. President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a common condition in older adults, the White House announced Thursday.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the diagnosis came after recent public concern over swelling in Trump’s ankles and bruising on his hand. Despite the condition, Leavitt assured that Trump, 79, remains in “excellent health.”
Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when vein valves in the legs become weak or damaged, making it difficult for blood to return to the heart. This often leads to swollen ankles, especially in people over 70.
“Importantly, there is no sign of deep vein thrombosis or serious artery problems,” Leavitt said. “The president feels no pain or discomfort.”
She added that Trump underwent a full medical check, including heart and blood vessel scans, “out of an abundance of caution.” Details of any treatment will be shared in a medical memo from the White House doctor.
As for the bruised hand, Leavitt explained it was from frequent handshakes and also linked to aspirin use. Trump is on aspirin as part of a routine heart health program.
Trump, who in January became the oldest U.S. president ever inaugurated, had previously raised concerns about his rival Joe Biden’s age and fitness during the 2024 election. However, Trump later dropped out of the race following a poor debate performance that led to questions about his own stamina.
Photos of Trump’s bulging ankles taken at a football event last weekend, along with what looked like makeup on his hand during a White House departure, stirred new debate about his health before the official announcement.