The White House confirmed Thursday that President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with a common circulatory condition in his legs but remains in strong health overall.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that Trump was evaluated after noticing mild swelling in his lower legs and some bruising on the back of his right hand.
“In the effort of transparency, the president wanted me to share a note from his physician with all of you today,” Leavitt said at the press briefing.
The president’s doctor, Dr. Sean Barbabella, a Navy physician, diagnosed Trump with chronic venous insufficiency, a non-serious and common condition in people over 70 that involves blood pooling in the legs due to vein function issues. The condition can result in swelling or varicose veins, often caused by prolonged standing.
Full Medical Review
Trump underwent a complete round of medical tests:
“All results were within normal limits,” Barbabella said.
“There was no evidence of deep vein thrombosis, arterial disease, heart failure, kidney issues, or any systemic illness.”
The bruising on Trump’s hand was also explained. His doctor linked it to aspirin use—a standard preventative therapy for heart health—and frequent handshaking, which can cause soft tissue irritation.
“This is a well-known and benign side effect of aspirin therapy,” the doctor noted.
Leavitt reassured the press that Trump remains in excellent health, adding, “I think all of you witness that on a daily basis.”
Contrast With Biden
The detailed update on President Trump’s health stood in sharp contrast to how the previous administration handled medical transparency.
Former President Joe Biden faced intense scrutiny over his physical and mental fitness, especially in the final year of his presidency.
After Biden’s disastrous debate performance in 2024 and increasing public concern, he eventually dropped out of the presidential race.
Last week, Biden’s former White House doctor was subpoenaed by the House Oversight Committee and responded by pleading the Fifth, refusing to answer questions about Biden’s condition.
Then, a longtime aide to Jill Biden also pleaded the Fifth on Wednesday when asked if unelected aides took over any of the president’s duties in his final months.
The refusal to testify has only intensified speculation about a potential cover-up during Biden’s final year in office.
