On Thursday, July 17, 2025, President Donald Trump was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) following an examination for mild swelling in his legs. The diagnosis was announced by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, who read a note from the president’s physician, Capt. Sean Barbabella. This medical update comes as President Trump, at 79 years old, prepares to become the nation’s oldest president during his second term.
According to Captain Barbabella’s letter, which was subsequently released by the White House, President Trump underwent a “comprehensive examination, including diagnostic vascular studies” by the White House Medical Unit. “Bilateral lower extremity venous Doppler ultrasounds were performed and revealed chronic venous insufficiency, a benign and common condition, particularly in individuals over the age of 70,” the letter stated. Importantly, the examination found “no evidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or arterial disease,” and all of Trump’s lab testing was “within normal limits.” An echocardiogram also showed “no signs of heart failure, renal impairment, or systemic illness.” (CNN)
Chronic venous insufficiency is a condition where the valves inside the leg veins do not function correctly, leading to blood pooling or collecting in the lower extremities. This can cause symptoms such as swelling in the lower legs or ankles, aching, cramping, varicose veins, and changes in skin appearance. Approximately 150,000 people are diagnosed with CVI each year, and the risk significantly increases with age. (MedlinePlus.gov)
Medical experts have weighed in on the diagnosis, noting its commonality. Dr. Jeremy Faust, an assistant professor of emergency medicine at Harvard Medical School, told CNN that the information is “not alarming” and “not surprising,” especially for individuals in the overweight or obese category. He emphasized the importance of evaluating such symptoms to rule out more serious conditions, which was done in President Trump’s case. Cardiologist Dr. Bernard Ashby added that while CVI is often benign, its underlying cause needs to be investigated, as it can sometimes be related to increased pressure from the heart or sleep apnea. He affirmed that Trump’s doctors were “covering all their bases” by screening for these conditions. Dr. Chris Pernell highlighted that age, obesity, inactivity, and prolonged sitting or standing can all contribute to CVI, noting that while it is not life-threatening, it “can be debilitating.” (CNN)
Despite the diagnosis, Press Secretary Leavitt stated that President Trump was experiencing “no discomfort” from the condition. She also addressed visible bruising on the back of the president’s hand, attributing it to “frequent handshaking” and his use of aspirin, which is part of a standard cardiovascular prevention regimen. Captain Barbabella’s letter concluded by affirming that “President Trump remains in excellent health.” (CNN)
Managing chronic venous insufficiency often involves lifestyle adjustments aimed at improving blood flow and reducing symptoms. These recommendations, supported by medical institutions like NYU Langone, include wearing compression garments, maintaining a healthy weight, and increasing activity levels through regular exercise such as walking, cycling, or jogging. Elevating the legs, avoiding prolonged periods of sitting or standing, and refraining from tight clothing and high heels can also help. Additionally, reducing salt intake to prevent water retention and moisturizing the skin to address dryness or cracking are beneficial practices. While CVI tends to worsen over time if left unmanaged, early treatment and adherence to self-care steps can significantly ease discomfort and prevent progression. In more advanced stages, medical procedures like sclerotherapy or vein stripping may be recommended. (NYULangone.org, MedlinePlus.gov)
