President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency following mild swelling in his lower legs, as announced by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt on Thursday, July 17, 2025, during a press briefing.
The 79-year-old president underwent thorough medical evaluations by the White House Medical Unit after noticing the swelling had recently appeared. The tests included diagnostic vascular studies and bilateral lower extremity venous Doppler ultrasounds, revealing a condition common in people over 70.
Leavitt explained that chronic venous insufficiency occurs when small valves in veins that typically help move blood against gravity lose their function over time, causing blood to pool in the legs and leading to swelling. The condition affects about one in 20 adults, mainly those over 50.
Dr. Sean Barbabella, Trump’s physician, found no evidence of deep vein thrombosis, a more serious condition characterized by blood clots in the deep veins. The examination also ruled out arterial disease, heart failure, renal impairment, and systemic illness. All laboratory results, including complete blood count, comprehensive metabolic panel, and coagulation profile, were normal.
An echocardiogram conducted during the assessment confirmed normal cardiac structure and function. Leavitt noted that the president experiences no discomfort from the condition and “remains in excellent health.” She emphasized that Trump continues working without limitations due to the diagnosis.
The announcement addressed recent speculation about Trump’s health after photos from the Club World Cup soccer final in New Jersey on July 13 showed noticeable swelling around his ankles. The images circulated online, raising questions about his physical condition.
Leavitt also commented on the bruising visible on the back of Trump’s hand in recent photos, where makeup seemed to partially cover the discoloration. She explained that the bruising was due to minor soft tissue irritation from frequent handshaking and Trump’s use of aspirin, taken as part of a cardiovascular prevention regimen to reduce heart attack and stroke risk.
The condition is a common medical issue among older adults. Medical experts note that chronic venous insufficiency usually results from damaged valves in leg veins that cannot effectively return blood to the heart. Risk factors include age, genetics, obesity, lack of physical activity, and prolonged periods of standing or sitting.
Treatment for chronic venous insufficiency typically focuses on improving blood flow and reducing symptoms. Standard methods include weight management, increased physical activity, leg elevation, and the use of compression stockings. Some patients may benefit from medications to enhance blood flow, while more severe cases might require minor procedures or surgery.
The disclosure marked an unusual level of transparency from Trump regarding his health. Throughout his political career, the president has often kept basic health facts private. His April 2025 comprehensive physical examination, conducted by several medical specialists, did not find chronic venous insufficiency. At that time, Trump’s doctor reported full range of motion in joints and muscles with normal blood flow and no swelling.
Leavitt stated that her disclosure aimed to address recent speculation about Trump’s health, particularly following the visible swelling and bruising in photographs. The White House later released Barbabella’s memorandum detailing the president’s recent health evaluation, though it contained no additional information beyond what Leavitt shared.
The diagnosis comes as Trump, who made age a central campaign issue against former President Joe Biden, continues as the oldest person ever to assume the office. At 79, Trump is three years younger than Biden, who exited the 2024 race amid party pressure regarding age concerns.
While not legally required, it has become standard for presidents to release annual physical examination results and health details. Trump’s 2015 campaign included a letter from his physician claiming he would be “the healthiest individual ever elected to the presidency,” though the doctor later revealed Trump had dictated the statement.
Symptoms of the condition can include achy or tired legs, burning sensations, cramping, swelling in the lower legs and ankles, skin discoloration, and a feeling of heaviness in the legs. More severe cases may result in complications such as lower leg ulcers over time. Medical professionals emphasize that chronic venous insufficiency is not considered a serious health threat, though it can cause discomfort and disability in some patients.
The White House indicated that Trump’s treatment plan would be detailed in Barbabella’s forthcoming letter, though the subsequently released memorandum provided no additional specifics about therapeutic interventions. The president’s current health status, according to his medical team, shows no signs of complications typically associated with more serious vascular conditions.
