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U.S. President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency after experiencing mild swelling in his lower legs, the White House announced on Thursday, July 17, 2025.
According to a statement from White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, the 79-year-old president underwent a comprehensive medical evaluation, including diagnostic vascular studies, conducted by the White House Medical Unit. The examination followed Trump’s complaints of leg swelling over recent weeks.
A medical note released by the president’s physician, Capt. Sean Barbabella, stated that bilateral Doppler ultrasounds of Trump’s lower limbs confirmed the diagnosis of chronic venous insufficiency—a common and typically benign condition, particularly in people over the age of 70.
“There was no evidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or arterial disease,” Barbabella noted, adding that the president’s laboratory results were within normal ranges. An echocardiogram was also performed and showed no signs of heart failure, kidney dysfunction, or any systemic illness.
Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when vein valves in the legs malfunction, allowing blood to pool and cause swelling. Symptoms may include aching, cramping, varicose veins, and skin changes. The condition is generally not life-threatening, though it can be debilitating if left untreated.
Medical experts say the diagnosis is not surprising. “This is a pretty normal part of aging, especially for someone in the overweight to obese category, which is where the president has always been,” said Dr. Jeremy Faust of Harvard Medical School, speaking to CNN. “The good news is that they ruled out more serious causes.”
Cardiologist Dr. Bernard Ashby emphasized the importance of understanding the underlying cause. “Venous insufficiency by itself may be benign, but it could also be linked to other conditions like increased heart pressure or sleep apnea,” he explained.
Lifestyle factors such as age, obesity, and lack of physical activity are commonly associated with the condition. Dr. Chris Pernell told CNN that while chronic venous insufficiency isn’t fatal, “it can be debilitating,” especially if not managed properly.
Leavitt also addressed visible bruising on the back of President Trump’s hand, attributing it to frequent handshaking and his regular use of aspirin. “This is consistent with minor soft tissue irritation and part of his standard cardiovascular prevention regimen,” she said.
Despite the diagnosis, Trump is reportedly experiencing no discomfort, and Barbabella concluded in his medical report that “President Trump remains in excellent health.”
Trump, who is currently serving his second term, is set to become the oldest U.S. president in history.
