Donald Trump Diagnosed with Chronic Venous Insufficiency After Leg Swelling Exam
On Thursday, Donald Trump underwent a thorough medical exam after noticing swelling in his legs. The White House later announced that the president has chronic venous insufficiency, a common circulatory condition. Although not life-threatening, experts warn it could impact his daily life.
Swollen Ankles Spark Health Speculation
Trump’s visibly swollen ankles sparked public discussion after several recent appearances and photos. In response, the White House Medical Unit conducted comprehensive vascular studies to investigate.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt shared a statement from Trump’s physician, Dr. Sean Barbabella. She said, “The president wanted to clarify the media’s speculation about bruising on his hand and swelling in his legs.”
What the Diagnosis Means
Dr. Barbabella explained that Trump experienced mild swelling in both lower legs. Doppler ultrasounds revealed chronic venous insufficiency—a benign and common condition, especially in people over 70. Crucially, the tests showed no deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or arterial disease, which are more serious.
Lab results were normal. An echocardiogram confirmed no signs of heart failure, kidney problems, or systemic illness.
Medical Experts Weigh In
According to CNN, around 150,000 people get diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency yearly. Risk rises with age. Symptoms include leg swelling, aching, cramping, and sometimes skin changes.
Dr. Jeremy Faust, an emergency medicine professor at Harvard Medical School, reassured the public. He called the diagnosis “not alarming” and typical of aging, especially for those who are overweight—like Trump.
Potential Underlying Causes
Cardiologist Dr. Bernard Ashby noted the condition can link to heart or lung pressure issues, like sleep apnea. He stressed the importance of finding what causes the venous insufficiency.
Dr. Chris Pernell added that age, obesity, inactivity, and prolonged standing or sitting can all lead to this condition. While it isn’t deadly, it can severely affect quality of life.
Catheter Rumors Surface Amid Health Concerns
Beyond the venous insufficiency diagnosis, rumors about Trump’s health continue to swirl. In June, a viral photo at a UFC event sparked speculation that he might be wearing a catheter.
The image showed fighter Kayla Harrison placing her championship belt around Trump’s waist. Some social media posts claimed tubing visible on his pants was a Foley catheter used for urine drainage.
Others disagreed, explaining the line was a crease in his pants, not medical tubing. Experts also noted Foley catheters are typically used only after certain medical procedures.
What’s Your Take?
Donald Trump’s health updates raise questions and debates. Do you think he is handling his role well despite these challenges? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
