President Trump Diagnosed with Chronic Venous Insufficiency, Declared in “Excellent Health”

White House physician Dr. Sean Barbabella announced Thursday that former President Donald Trump, 79, has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a common circulatory condition, but emphasized that Trump “remains in excellent health.”

The diagnosis came after Trump reported mild swelling in his lower legs. A comprehensive vascular examination, including bilateral lower extremity Doppler ultrasounds, confirmed the presence of CVI. Importantly, the tests showed no signs of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease, according to NPR.

CVI is a condition in which the valves in the leg veins fail to return blood efficiently to the heart, leading to pooling in the lower limbs. It is especially prevalent in individuals over 70 and affects up to 40% of Americans, according to the Society for Vascular Surgery. Symptoms can include swelling, easy bruising, and in severe cases, tissue damage or ulcers.

Trump’s press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, addressed public concern over visible bruising on Trump’s hands, explaining that it results from frequent handshakes and his regular use of aspirin for cardiovascular health. “There’s no discomfort,” she said. “The president is working around the clock.”

Trump’s April physical made no mention of CVI, noting instead that “blood flow to his extremities is unimpaired.” Nevertheless, both that report and Thursday’s update concluded that Trump remains in “excellent health.” Online reactions ranged from praise for the administration’s transparency to speculation about Vice President JD Vance’s preparedness should Trump’s condition worsen.