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WASHINGTON: White House Provides Update on President Trump’s Health
The White House has reassured the public that President Donald Trump’s recent leg swelling and bruising on his right hand are not cause for concern. This follows the release of photographs showing Trump with noticeable swelling in his ankles and makeup concealing the bruising on his hand.
Officials noted that the swelling is linked to a common vein condition, while the bruising is likely a result of frequent handshaking. During a press briefing, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt shared a letter from Trump’s doctor, stating that both issues are benign, with the leg swelling attributed to a “common” vein condition and the hand bruising as a consequence of multiple handshakes.
Medical professionals have ruled out any serious health issues and confirmed that the president is in excellent condition. This clarification comes amid online speculation regarding the 79-year-old president’s health sparked by the images.
Following the briefing, the White House released a letter from Navy physician Sean Barbabella. He confirmed that Trump underwent a series of tests following these concerns, including an ultrasound of his legs, which indicated chronic venous insufficiency—a common and harmless condition, especially in individuals over 70.
Barbabella reassured that there is no evidence of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease, and additional tests showed no indications of heart failure, kidney issues, or any systemic illnesses. Leavitt affirmed that Trump is not experiencing any discomfort from these conditions.
The physician explained that the bruising on Trump’s right hand is consistent with minor soft tissue irritation from frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin as part of a standard cardiovascular health regimen. “President Trump remains in excellent health,” Barbabella concluded.
Dr. Kwame Amankwah, chief of vascular surgery at the University of Connecticut, stated that chronic venous insufficiency primarily affects the lower legs, hindering veins’ ability to return blood to the heart. This condition is typically managed with compression stockings and leg elevation.
“If left uncontrolled, it could lead to severe swelling and ulcers, requiring more intensive intervention,” Amankwah warned. However, Todd Berland, director of outpatient vascular interventions at NYU Langone Health, noted that chronic venous insufficiency does not impact overall life expectancy; rather, it affects the quality of life.
Trump had a routine physical exam on April 11 at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center near Washington. Doctors reported a normal heart rhythm and no significant health concerns.