Donald Trump news: US President diagnosed with common vein condition after ankle swelling raises concerns
US President Donald Trump underwent a comprehensive medical exam that revealed he has a common vein disorder, but cleared him of more serious illnesses, the White House said Thursday.
The White House disclosed the 79-year-old president’s medical information in response to speculation after photos showed Mr Trump with swollen ankles.
Press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Mr Trump noticed the swelling in recent weeks, and received a thorough evaluation by the White House medical unit.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.He was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, which Ms Leavitt described as a “benign and common condition, particularly in individuals over the age of 70.”
Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when a person’s leg veins are damaged, restricting circulation and causing blood to pool in the legs, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Chronic venous insufficiency affects about 1 in 20 adults, and the risk increases with age, according to the Clinic.
Ms Leavitt said Mr Trump was not in any pain from the condition.
Ms Leavitt also addressed bruises periodically visible on the back of Mr Trump’s hand. She said they were caused by irritation from “frequent handshaking,” coupled with his aspirin regimen.
The medical exam found no evidence of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease, Ms Leavitt said.
Mr Trump’s blood test results were all within “normal limits,” and an echocardiogram confirmed “normal cardiac structure and function” with “no signs of heart failure, renal impairment or systemic illness,” she added.
Ms Leavitt noted in Thursday’s briefing that bruising, like that seen on Trump’s hands, is a common side effect of regularly using aspirin, which Trump takes as part of a “standard cardiovascular prevention regimen.”
“The President remains in excellent health, which I think all of you witness on a daily basis here,” she said.
White House physician Sean Barbabella wrote in an April memo that Mr Trump “remains in excellent physical health” and is “fully fit” to perform the duties of the presidency.
