The doctor found that the swelling was the result of chronic venous insufficiency, a ‘benign and common condition’ for people over 70 years old.
President Donald Trump underwent a medical evaluation after swelling in his lower legs and bruising on his hands, the White House said. Trump remains in good health, according to the physician.
A short report of that evaluation was read aloud by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt during the daily press briefing on July 17, and was later provided to members of the press.
“In an effort of transparency, the president wanted me to share a note from his physician with all of you today,” Leavitt told reporters.
“In recent weeks, President Trump noted mild swelling in his lower legs. In keeping with routine medical care, and out of an abundance of caution, this concern was thoroughly evaluated by the White House medical unit. The president underwent a comprehensive examination.”
The swelling in the legs was found to be chronic venous insufficiency, which the doctor reported was “a benign and common condition, particularly in individuals over the age of 70.” Trump celebrated his 79th birthday on June 14.
Meanwhile, the minor bruising found on the president’s hands, shown in recent photos, was found to be consistent with irritation of soft tissue resulting from frequent handshaking, as well as a benign side effect of the use of aspirin, which the doctor said the president takes “as part of a standard cardiovascular prevention regimen.”
Extensive studies and tests were conducted on the president, including but not limited to diagnostic vascular studies, bilateral lower extremity venous Doppler ultrasounds, a complete blood count, a comprehensive metabolic panel, and an echocardiogram.
All results were within normal limits, including normal cardiac structure and function. The doctor found no signs of heart failure, deep vein thrombosis, arterial disease, renal impairment, or systemic illness.
Chronic venous insufficiency is when the flow of superficial or deep venous blood is impaired, causing venous hypertension and swelling, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Approximately 150,000 new patients are diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency each year, and studies suggest that as many as 17 percent of men may experience the condition.
Risk factors not only include age, but also weight and prolonged standing or sitting, tobacco use, family history of varicose veins, and a history of leg injury.
Severe cases could lead to worsening problems such as ulcers and deep vein thrombosis, of which the president shows no sign.
People who have the condition are often advised to lose weight, exercise, and elevate their legs.
The evaluation comes after the president passed his annual medical examination in April with flying colors, according to his physician, Dr. Sean P. Barbabella.
“President Trump remains in excellent health, exhibiting robust cardiac, pulmonary, neurological, and general physical function,” Barbabella wrote in his summary of the exam on April 13.
“His active lifestyle continues to contribute significantly to his well-being. President Trump’s days include participation in multiple meetings, public appearances, press availability, and frequent victories in golf events.”
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