Following visible bruises on Donald Trump’s hand, questions about his health have grown. The president reportedly tried to hide the marks with makeup, sitting at the Resolute Desk “covering the back of his right hand with his left.”
Trump’s physician, Sean Barbabella, explained the bruises as “minor soft tissue irritation from frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin.” The White House insists he is in “excellent health.” Press secretary Karoline Leavitt added that Trump “shakes hands with more Americans every day than any other president in history” and shows “his unwavering commitment every single day.”
The 79-year-old was also seen with swollen ankles, which the White House attributed to chronic venous insufficiency, a common but benign condition in older adults that can cause “leg pain, skin problems, swelling, and bloated ankles.”
Speculation has persisted, especially after a February meeting with Emmanuel Macron where Trump’s right hand again appeared bruised, sparking online rumors about his health.