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Recent images of President Donald Trump showed signs of swollen legs and a bruised hand, prompting medical professionals to discuss potential causes and concerns.
In a move towards transparency, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt shared a statement from Trump’s physician after he underwent a thorough examination by the White House Medical Unit.
During a press briefing, Leavitt explained that Trump’s swollen legs were due to a common condition known as “chronic venous insufficiency,” which is prevalent among older individuals. At 79 years old, the president falls into this demographic.
“Importantly, there was no evidence of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease,” she added.
Leavitt attributed the bruising on the president’s hand to “frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin.”
Recent images of President Trump’s swollen legs and bruised hand raised medical concerns. (Getty Images)
“This is a well-known and benign side effect of aspirin therapy, and the president remains in excellent health.”
‘Common condition’
Dr. Scott A. Sundick, a vascular and endovascular surgeon at The Cardiovascular Care Group in Westfield, New Jersey, provided insight on the issue. (He has not treated the president.)
“Leg swelling is a common issue, especially among older adults. As a vascular surgeon, I frequently see patients with this complaint,” he shared.
“The president remains in excellent health.”
While leg swelling is often harmless, it can sometimes indicate serious conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, congestive heart failure, or renal failure, according to Dr. Sundick.
“In the president’s case, these more severe causes were ruled out through diagnostic tests like a venous Doppler ultrasound, echocardiogram, and laboratory evaluations,” he elaborated.
A memo from Dr. Sean P. Barbabella, Trump’s physician, confirmed the president’s good health following a comprehensive evaluation. (WhiteHouse.gov)
Dr. Sundick also discussed Trump’s diagnosis of chronic venous insufficiency, describing it as a common and benign condition.
“Under normal circumstances, blood returns to the heart from the legs through the veins, aided by leg muscle contractions with each step. When valves in the veins weaken, blood can pool in the lower legs, leading to venous insufficiency.”
This condition may result in symptoms like leg swelling or varicose veins, he explained.
Recent photos revealed President Trump’s bruised hand, which seemed to be covered with makeup. (Getty Images)
Treatment typically involves the use of compression stockings or, in some cases, a minimally invasive procedure called venous ablation.
Regarding the bruising linked to aspirin therapy, Dr. Sundick noted that many older adults take daily low-dose aspirin for cardiovascular disease prevention.
“Aspirin reduces the risk of blood clots that could lead to heart attacks or strokes, but it can also increase the tendency to bruise easily,” he added.
President Trump’s swollen legs at a recent FIFA game in New Jersey sparked discussion. (Getty Images)
Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News’ senior medical analyst, also addressed the bruising on Trump’s hand.
“As you age, your skin becomes more fragile and prone to bruising, and aspirin can contribute to this,” Siegel explained.
“I don’t think there’s anything hidden there at all.”
During a segment on “America Reports,” Siegel expressed that the medical update was reassuring and that Trump’s condition was not serious, posing no health risks.
“It’s expected for a man in his late 70s who is constantly on his feet,” Siegel added, suggesting measures like compression stockings and leg elevation to alleviate swelling and discomfort.
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Siegel also accepted the explanation that Trump’s hand bruising was a result of vigorous handshaking, dismissing any hidden concerns.
“I don’t think there’s anything hidden there at all,” Siegel concluded.
