U.S. President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with a chronic but non-life-threatening vein condition, the White House announced Thursday, following widespread speculation about visible swelling in his legs and bruising on his right hand.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump, 79, was found to have chronic venous insufficiency after he reported mild leg swelling in recent weeks. The condition, common in older adults, involves weakened leg veins that impair proper blood flow.
Leavitt clarified that the discoloration on Trump’s hand, which had drawn attention online, was due to frequent handshakes and the use of aspirin as part of a routine cardiovascular prevention regimen. “This is a well-known and benign side effect of aspirin therapy,” she said, emphasizing that the former president “remains in excellent health.”
The update follows viral discussions after Trump was seen with visibly swollen ankles during the FIFA Club World Cup final in New Jersey. The White House had previously downplayed concerns, attributing the bruising solely to handshaking.
According to Leavitt, Trump underwent a comprehensive medical evaluation, including ultrasound tests. These confirmed the venous condition but found no signs of deep vein thrombosis, arterial disease, heart failure, or other systemic illness.
Trump, who returned to the presidency in January 2025 after defeating Democrat Joe Biden, is the oldest person to assume the office at age 79. He has repeatedly touted his vigor and was recently depicted in a viral campaign image as a superhero.
The announcement comes amid heightened scrutiny over presidential health, especially following Biden’s widely criticized 2024 debate performance, which ultimately led to his withdrawal from the race. Biden, 82, was later diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer.
Republicans have since launched investigations into what they allege was a cover-up of Biden’s physical and cognitive decline, with House lawmakers issuing subpoenas to his aides and physician. Trump himself has accused the previous administration—without offering evidence—of hiding Biden’s diminished capacity, even pointing to the use of an autopen to sign official documents.
Despite the scrutiny, Leavitt maintained Trump’s fitness for office, saying he requested the physician’s note be made public “in the effort of transparency.”
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