Trump diagnosed with common vein condition, White House says he’s in ‘excellent health’
The news: US President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency after noticing “mild swelling” in his legs, the White House said Thursday (Friday AEST).
The context: The condition, which affects leg veins and can cause swelling, was identified following a comprehensive medical exam of the president, who is 79.
White House physician Sean Barbabella found no evidence of more serious conditions, including deep vein thrombosis, arterial disease, heart failure, renal impairment or systemic illness, according to a memo released by the White House.
All test results were within normal limits.
Images of the president at the Club World Cup final in New Jersey over the weekend showed visible ankle swelling, fuelling speculation about its cause.
What they said: “Recent photos of the President have shown minor bruising on the back of his hand. This is consistent with minor soft tissue irritation from frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin, which is taken as part of a standard cardiovascular prevention regimen,” the memo said.
Speaking to reporters in Washington, press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump was experiencing no discomfort and remains in “excellent health.”
The sources: White House, CBS News, Bloomberg