President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a circulatory condition that affects blood flow in the legs, according to an official statement released by the White House on Thursday. The announcement follows recent observations of swelling in Trump’s legs and noticeable bruising on his hands, which had sparked widespread speculation online about the state of his health.
Speaking to reporters, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reassured the public that the condition is “benign and common,” particularly in older adults. Reading from a letter authored by Trump’s physician, she explained that the condition occurs when damaged or weakened veins impair the return of blood from the legs back to the heart. “This condition is significantly more common in individuals over the age of 70,” she said.
Trump, who is currently 79 years old, holds the record as the oldest individual ever elected to the presidency. Age and physical fitness have remained a focal point of political debate during his recent campaign, especially given his continued criticism of his predecessor, Joe Biden, over similar issues. Trump often questioned Biden’s stamina and mental acuity throughout the 2024 presidential race. Ironically, Biden—who is three years Trump’s senior—later withdrew from the race under growing pressure from within the Democratic Party, ultimately paving the way for Kamala Harris to become the Democratic nominee. Harris went on to lose to Trump in the general election.
While Trump’s recent appearance, including visible bruises and signs of leg discomfort, has raised eyebrows on social media, the White House has maintained that the former president’s health remains strong. “There is no evidence of more serious conditions such as deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease,” Leavitt emphasized. She stated that Trump had undergone a series of comprehensive medical tests, all of which returned within normal limits.
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“His cardiac structure and function are normal,” Leavitt continued. “There are no signs of heart failure, renal problems, or any systemic illness. His overall test results are stable and consistent with his age.”
The bruising on Trump’s hands, which had led to viral speculation and concern among his supporters and critics alike, was also addressed. According to the medical report, the discoloration is attributed to minor soft tissue irritation caused by frequent handshaking, an occupational hazard of constant public engagement. In addition, Trump takes a low-dose aspirin as part of a preventive cardiovascular routine, which may contribute to easier bruising.
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Although U.S. presidents are not legally required to disclose their medical records, it has become an expected tradition for those in the nation’s highest office to provide regular health updates. This is particularly true in times of heightened public scrutiny or visible health changes. Trump himself has a long history of making headlines over his health, beginning with his 2015 campaign. At the time, his physician, Dr. Harold Bornstein, issued a letter claiming that Trump would be “the healthiest individual ever elected to the presidency.” That statement was later criticized for its hyperbolic tone and lack of detailed medical evidence.
Despite that, Trump has continued to project a public image of strength and vitality. The latest diagnosis, while not serious, is likely to add another layer of public interest to his ongoing health narrative, especially as he prepares to serve another term in office at an advanced age.
Chronic venous insufficiency, while common, can lead to discomfort and may require management through lifestyle adjustments such as regular exercise, elevation of the legs, compression stockings, or in some cases, minor medical procedures. However, the White House has not indicated that Trump requires any invasive treatment at this time. “The president remains active and fully engaged with his duties,” Leavitt concluded.
As Trump begins his return to the White House, attention on his health is expected to persist. With Americans increasingly focused on the fitness of their leaders, medical transparency may continue to be a central theme throughout his next term. For now, officials maintain that the former president is in stable health and under routine monitoring.