The White House confirms that President Donald Trump has chronic venous insufficiency following visible bruises and leg swelling, dispelling rumors of more serious ailments. The diagnosis comes as Trump, 79, continues to project his health as robust.

Related:

Trump to Impose Uniform Tariff Rate on Over 150 Economies

After recent photographs circulated showing bruises on his hands, U.S. President Donald Trump underwent a comprehensive medical examination, including vascular studies. The White House announced on July 17, 2025, that he suffers from chronic venous insufficiency, a common condition in older adults where leg veins fail to efficiently return blood to the heart.

Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary, explained that the bruises on Trump’s hands are consistent with “tissue damage caused by frequent handshakes” while on aspirin, part of his standard cardiovascular preventive care. Despite rumors, no indications of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or arterial disease were found, and all test results were within normal ranges.

What Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) occurs when leg veins become weakened or damaged, hampering blood flow back to the heart and causing blood to pool in the lower limbs. This leads to swelling, pain, and sometimes visible skin changes or bruising. It is especially prevalent in individuals over 70 years old.

This diagnosis clarifies recent visual concerns, including the swelling noted by photographers during Trump’s attendance at the FIFA Club World Cup final in New Jersey on July 13 and bruising observed at various public events including meetings with foreign dignitaries such as Bahrain’s Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa and France’s President Emmanuel Macron.

President Trump has been diagnosed with a BENIGN medical condition known as chronic venous insufficiency common in those over 70.

Thankfully, no heart-related issues have been detected following reports of minor swelling in the president's legs. pic.twitter.com/Z7Yhv1TqqY

— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) July 17, 2025

The White House physician, Dr. Sean Barbabella, noted in Trump’s April physical examination that the president exhibited “good cognitive and physical health.” Trump, who began his second term at age 78 years and seven months, remains the oldest U.S. president to assume office.

Despite persistent speculation fueled by media and political adversaries about undisclosed health issues, the White House maintains that Trump’s chronic venous disease is manageable and does not impede his presidential duties.

IN THIS ARTICLE