The White House has confirmed that President Donald Trump is experiencing swelling in his lower legs and bruising on his right hand, after recent photographs sparked online speculation about his health.
Addressing reporters on Thursday, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt read a statement from Trump’s physician, US Navy officer Sean Barbabella, stating that the conditions are benign and not cause for concern.
According to Barbabella’s letter, Trump’s leg swelling is caused by chronic venous insufficiency—a common condition in older adults where leg veins struggle to return blood to the heart. An ultrasound confirmed the diagnosis and ruled out more serious conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, arterial disease, heart failure, or kidney impairment.
Leavitt assured reporters that Trump, 79, is not experiencing discomfort and continues to maintain good overall health. She attributed the bruising on his right hand to frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin, which Trump takes as part of a standard cardiovascular health regimen.
“President Trump remains in excellent health,” Barbabella concluded in the physician’s note.
The statement follows a wave of internet rumours prompted by images showing swollen ankles and makeup concealing marks on Trump’s hand. The White House said the transparency was meant to quell public speculation.
Medical experts supported the findings. Dr. Kwame Amankwah, chief of vascular surgery at the University of Connecticut, explained that while the condition is not life-threatening, it should be managed to prevent complications such as ulcers. Treatment typically involves compression stockings and leg elevation.
Dr. Todd Berland of NYU Langone Health added, “Chronic venous insufficiency has no overall effect on life expectancy. It’s a quality-of-life issue, not a quantity of life issue.”
Trump underwent a full physical examination on April 11 at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, which found no major health issues and confirmed a normal heart rhythm.
The White House’s disclosure appears aimed at reaffirming the former president’s fitness amid persistent public scrutiny, particularly as the 2024 election season intensifies.
Melissa Enoch
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