Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a condition that causes swelling in the lower legs and affects one in three seniors.
President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a vein condition that explains recent photos showing swollen ankles. The condition, common in older adults, occurs when leg veins struggle to send blood back to the heart, causing it to pool and trigger swelling.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed Trump had been experiencing leg swelling for weeks. A Doppler ultrasound and echocardiogram showed no clots or heart issues. “President Trump remains in excellent health,” Leavitt said.
Experts say CVI is not life-threatening but can worsen if untreated, potentially leading to painful venous ulcers or deep vein thrombosis. “Venous ulcers can be painful [and] are prone to infection,” said Theresa Larkin, associate professor of medical sciences.
Dr. William Shutz noted that inactivity, including long travel or meetings, can contribute to the condition, and advised compression socks and daily movement.
Despite his diagnosis, Trump’s latest physical report declared him “fully fit” with no alarming test results.