The White House has confirmed that former U.S. President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)—a circulatory condition where veins struggle to return blood from the legs back to the heart.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced the diagnosis on Thursday while addressing recent concerns over swelling in Trump’s legs and visible bruising on his hand.
According to a medical memo released by the president’s physician, Dr. Sean P. Barbabella, the 79-year-old former president noticed mild swelling in his lower legs, prompting a full medical evaluation. Tests revealed the presence of CVI, which Dr. Barbabella described as “benign” and common in adults over the age of 70.
What Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?
Chronic venous insufficiency affects 10% to 35% of U.S. adults and occurs when veins—usually in the legs—fail to efficiently transport blood back to the heart. The condition often leads to leg swelling, and in some cases, varicose veins, discomfort, or venous ulcers, which are sores that heal slowly.
Read Also: Trump signs order withdrawing US from UN bodies
Dr. Prakash Krishnan, director of endovascular services at Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital in New York, explained that age, obesity, pregnancy, and prolonged standing are key risk factors. The veins in the legs work against gravity using one-way valves and muscle contractions to circulate blood. When valves weaken or leak, blood pools, leading to pressure and vein enlargement.
Common Treatments
Doctors usually begin treatment with non-invasive methods, such as:
- Compression stockings to improve blood flow.
- Leg elevation (30 minutes, 3 times a day).
- Lifestyle changes, including weight loss and exercise.
In more severe cases, patients may undergo:
- Sclerotherapy, a procedure that collapses faulty veins using a chemical injection.
- Laser or heat treatments to seal the affected veins and reroute blood through healthier ones.
Additional Findings and Trump’s Health Status
The White House also addressed the bruising on Trump’s hand, which Dr. Barbabella attributed to frequent handshaking and the regular use of aspirin—a medication he takes for heart health.
As part of the full checkup, Trump underwent blood tests and an echocardiogram, all of which came back normal, showing no signs of cardiac, kidney, or systemic problems.
“President Trump remains in excellent health,” Dr. Barbabella concluded.
