Donald Trump’s Health Under Scrutiny After Swollen Ankles and Bruised Hand—Doctors Say He's Fit to Serve
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Donald Trump’s Health Under Scrutiny After Swollen Ankles and Bruised Hand—Doctors Say He's Fit to Serve. |
President Donald Trump’s recent public appearances showing swollen ankles and a bruised hand have sparked widespread concern and speculation about his health. However, the White House has stepped forward to reassure the public that the former president is not suffering from any serious medical condition.
On Wednesday, July 17, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that Trump, now 79 years old, was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency following a comprehensive medical evaluation. This condition, which affects blood flow in the legs, is reportedly common among individuals over the age of 70 and is considered non-life-threatening.
Leavitt explained that the former president had experienced mild leg swelling, prompting doctors to perform a series of vascular tests, including a venous ultrasound. The results indicated poor venous return in his legs, but crucially, there were no signs of deep vein thrombosis, arterial disease, heart failure, kidney dysfunction, or any other systemic illness.
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Donald Trump’s Health Under Scrutiny After Swollen Ankles and Bruised Hand—Doctors Say He's Fit to Serve. |
Presidential physician Dr. Sean Barbabella also issued a memo to the media confirming that all test results were within normal limits. He stated that Trump is in good overall health and remains fully capable of carrying out presidential duties.
The health buzz began after Trump was seen with visibly swollen ankles during the FIFA Club World Cup Final in New Jersey on July 13. Just days later, during a meeting with Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, photos captured bruising on the back of Trump’s hand, further fueling speculation.
Leavitt addressed the concerns, noting that the hand bruising was likely caused by frequent handshakes combined with long-term aspirin use, which Trump reportedly takes as a preventive measure for cardiovascular health. Aspirin is known to increase the likelihood of minor bruising, especially in older adults. She emphasized that Trump is not experiencing any discomfort and is continuing with his normal activities.
In a move to shut down rumors, the White House proactively released Trump’s health status, underlining that chronic venous insufficiency, while requiring ongoing monitoring, is a manageable and common condition among seniors.
It’s worth noting that when Trump was inaugurated for his second term in January, he was 78 years and 7 months old—making him the oldest sitting president in U.S. history.
Although signs like swollen feet or bruised hands can raise alarms, medical professionals have made it clear: these are minor symptoms in an otherwise stable health profile. Trump, according to his doctors, remains in strong enough condition to lead the country.