Fears over Donald Trump's health have resurfaced after experts observed that his diagnosed chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) appears to be worsening. The 80-year-old president, who was diagnosed with CVI last year, displayed notably swollen ankles during his appearance at the NATO summit in Turkey, sparking concerns about his physical condition.
Expert Analysis of Trump's Condition
Dr. Sanjiv Lakhanpal, founder and CEO of the Center for Vein Restoration, told the Daily Beast that Trump's lifestyle habits may be exacerbating the condition. CVI occurs when leg veins struggle to return blood to the heart. Dr. Lakhanpal stated that the president is likely "doing all the things that people with CVI should not be doing," including staying up late posting on Truth Social and avoiding exercise.
"If you don't maintain a certain kind of lifestyle - which would be maintaining a certain body mass index - and you're up at odd times, and you're not using compression socks so you're fatigued, this won't be helping," Dr. Lakhanpal said. He also suggested that the condition could contribute to Trump's slightly lopsided gait, which commentators have noted in recent weeks. "If somebody's fatigued, has not slept well, is not feeling the healthiest and their legs are heavy - all that could lead to the kind of gait you've been seeing," he added.
Previous Health Concerns and White House Response
Trump, the oldest president in U.S. history, has faced scrutiny over both his cognitive and physical health, including instances of bruised hands and memory lapses. Despite this, he insists he is in "perfect" health, and his latest medical report praised his "excellent" overall state. White House physician Sean Barbarella confirmed the CVI diagnosis last July, describing it as a "benign and common condition."
A White House spokesperson dismissed Dr. Lakhanpal's claims, criticizing the Daily Beast for reporting on them and calling the outlet a "mentally challenged, lightweight operation." The spokesperson added, "Hopefully the idiots who work there will eventually be able to get themselves a real job."
