By Joy Yesufu
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with a chronic but non-life-threatening vein condition following concerns over visible swelling in his legs and bruising on his hand, the White House announced on Thursday.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the 79-year-old Republican leader was found to have chronic venous insufficiency, a common circulatory disorder, after reporting “mild swelling in his lower legs” in recent weeks.
Speculation about Trump’s health intensified after photos from public appearances, including the FIFA Club World Cup final in New Jersey, showed noticeably swollen ankles and discoloration on his right hand.
Leavitt attributed the hand bruising to “frequent handshaking” and aspirin usage, which she described as part of “a standard cardiovascular prevention regimen.”
In an effort to dispel rumours, Leavitt shared a medical note from Trump’s physician confirming the diagnosis. According to the statement, a comprehensive medical evaluation, including ultrasound testing, revealed no signs of deep vein thrombosis, arterial disease, heart failure, kidney impairment, or systemic illness.
“The ultrasound revealed chronic venous insufficiency, a benign and common condition, particularly in individuals over the age of 70,” the note read.
Leavitt, 27, emphasized that Trump remains in “excellent health” and continues to maintain an active lifestyle, including regular golf outings. In April, following a routine medical check-up, Trump declared he was in “very good shape.”
Now serving his second term after defeating Joe Biden in 2024, Trump is the oldest president in U.S. history. He frequently touts his stamina and physical fitness, and recently shared a digitally altered image of himself portrayed as Superman.
Despite online speculation, the White House maintains there are no serious concerns about his health. “This is a well-known and benign side effect of aspirin therapy,” Leavitt reiterated regarding the hand bruising.
