US President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a circulation disorder, after noticing “mild swelling in his lower legs,” according to Karoline Leavitt, White House press secretary.
Leavitt, speaking on Thursday, described it as a “common condition, particularly in individuals over the age of 70.”
She said Trump, 79, underwent a series of tests, including a complete blood count, a comprehensive metabolic panel, and a coagulation profile.
Leavitt said the results were reassuring.
“Importantly, there was no evidence of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease… An echocardiogram was also performed and confirmed normal cardiac structure and function; no signs of heart failure, renal impairment, or systemic illness were identified additionally,” Leavitt said, reading from a letter she said came from Trump’s physician.
According to her, Trump directed the findings be shared with the public “in the effort of transparency.”
Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when veins in the legs fail to effectively return blood to the heart.
Normally, valves in the veins ensure blood flows toward the heart, but when they malfunction, blood can flow backward and pool in the legs.
Untreated, the condition can lead to pain, swelling, cramps, skin discoloration, and ulcers — though it is not considered life-threatening.
Leavitt also addressed recent photos showing discoloration on the back of Trump’s hand.
“This is consistent with minor soft tissue irritation from frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin, which is taken as part of a standard cardiovascular prevention regimen,” she said.
“This is a well-known and benign side effect of aspirin therapy, and the president remains in excellent health, which I think all of you witness on a daily basis here.”
Trump became the oldest person ever inaugurated as US president in January.
Joe Biden, his predecessor, previously held that record as the oldest serving president.
During the 2024 election cycle, Trump frequently criticized Biden, now 82, for his age and stamina.
The former president later dropped out of the race following a disastrous debate performance that intensified concerns over his mental sharpness