Trump’s Swollen Ankles? Here’s What Chronic Vein Trouble Has to Do with Ramaphosa

 

[A visibly uncomfortable President Trump sits in the Oval Office, his suit stretched to capacity by swelling ankles and cheeks, reportedly refusing to drink anything “herbal” until further notice.]


Former US President Donald Trump, now 79, has recently been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)—a common condition among older adults that causes leg swelling when veins struggle to transport blood back to the heart (Reuters). What caught everyone’s attention, though, is his offbeat claim during a press briefing: he blamed President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, jesting that the condition was somehow connected to the South African leader.

Sounds wild? We'll explain why it's not malicious—but more about nerves, nerves under pressure, and media-heavy headlines.


What Is CVI—and How Bad Is It?

CVI happens when damaged valves in the leg veins allow blood to pool, causing swelling, heaviness, cramps, or even varicose veins in serious cases (TimesLIVE, Politico). Doctors say it's benign and manageable, especially with mild symptoms like Trump's, which reportedly haven't caused him pain (CBS News).

Standard treatments include:

  • Lifestyle changes (walking, weight control, elevating legs)

  • Compression stockings

  • Medication or minimally invasive procedures, if needed (TIME, Sky News, CBS News).

So no, he’s not in critical condition—but yes, he has something many older people worry about.


Heart vs. Vein: The Difference

Critics often worry when a public figure’s condition is revealed as a “swollen leg.” But Trump’s doctors have ruled out deep vein thrombosis, arterial disease, heart failure, or any systemic illness (TIME, Reuters). In short: CVI affects circulation in the legs—not his heart or overall health.


Where Ramaphosa Comes In

In a surprising twist, Trump jested that every time he thinks of Cyril Ramaphosa or South Africa, “BOOM, the ankles swell up”. He even joked the condition was “African, not American” and teased that Ramaphosa practices “ancestral stuff” (Healthshots). Adding to the drama, he referred to his left and right feet as “Cyril” and “Julius.”

While meant for laughs, it highlights how geopolitics can spill into personal health narratives—especially during tense moments like their Oval Office meetings this past May (Yahoo, Wikipedia).


Fact vs. Fiction: No Curse Involved

There's no medical or cultural basis linking CVI to ancestry or heritage. Trump’s comments appear to lean on humor and drama—common in his communications. Experts remind us: CVI is a vascular issue, nothing mystical or “African curse”-related (Sky News, The Economic Times, The Economic Times).


The Real Talk on Trump’s Health

Trump’s advisory team says he remains in overall excellent health, experiencing only mild symptoms from CVI—no pain, no serious side effects (Reuters).

Medical advice for managing CVI—like moderation, walking, compression, and leg elevation—applies to most people with the condition (AP News).


Read also: Why South Africans Are Turning to Soup Kitchens—Even with Grants


Poll / Comment Section
📌 What do you think—was Trump joking or serious about blaming Ramaphosa?
[ ] Just a joke for headlines
[ ] He believes it
[ ] Politically motivated
[ ] I don’t know


Final Thought:
Trump’s leg swelling is real, and his playful blame on Ramaphosa made headlines. But the true story is simple: a common vein condition that’s treatable and nothing more. Don’t let theatrics distract you from the facts.

Follow us for the latest on health, politics, and stories that matter—right here at Daily South African Pulse.

~BILLY JAYDEN LOUIS


Sources:


Tags:
#TrumpHealth #ChronicVenousInsufficiency #CVI #Ramaphosa #OvalOfficeDrama #VascularHealth #Dailysouthafricanpulse

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Disclaimer: This article is satirical and intended purely for entertainment. It is not a factual news or report and should not be interpreted as official.



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