Photo: Alamy
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed media speculation and rumors regarding President Donald Trump’s health on Thursday, explaining a bruise on the president’s hand and noting that the Commander-in-Chief was in “excellent” condition.
Several days ago, photos taken just outside the White House seemed to reveal what looked like a bruise on the president’s hand. It’s not the first time such speculation has occurred, but in the spirit of transparency, Leavitt said during a press briefing that Trump wanted to share information about his health with the media.
Leavitt shared that the president had experienced “mild swelling in his lower legs” in recent weeks and, 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 exam, including diagnostic vascular studies.
Doctors found evidence of chronic venous insufficiency, which is common “in individuals over the age of 70.”
According to Leavitt, medical professionals found “no evidence of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease.” The president also underwent a slate of comprehensive lab tests, as well as an electrocardiogram, also known as an EKG. All lab tests, Leavitt said, were within the normal range.
Leavitt confirmed there were “no signs of heart failure” in President Trump, and explained that the minor bruising on the president’s hand was caused by “frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin,” which is a common treatment used to prevent heart attacks or strokes.
“The president remains in excellent health, which I think all of you witness on a daily basis,” Leavitt concluded.