President Donald Trump has undergone health examinations after speculation about bruising on his hands, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Thursday.
“Recent photos of the president have shown minor bruising on the back of his hand. This is consistent with minor soft tissue irritation from frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin, which is taken as part of a standard cardiovascular prevention regimen,” Leavitt said, quoting a memorandum from the White House physician later released to the public.
“This is a well-known and benign side effect of aspirin therapy, and the president remains in excellent health, which I think all of you witness on a daily basis here,” she added.
Questions about apparent discoloration on Trump’s hands came as early as 2024, but most recently cropped up again this week because of photographs taken during Trump’s trip to Pittsburgh.
Bright red spots on his hand were the subject of speculation as early as January 2024. After photos of a bruise on the back of Trump’s hand were the subject of scrutiny early into his second term, the White House credited it to “working and shaking hands all day every day.”
Concerns and tabloid speculation about his ankles came after a photo of Trump’s attendance at the FIFA Club World Cup. Trump underwent examination for this swelling as well.
“The president underwent a comprehensive examination, including diagnostic vascular studies. Bilateral lower extremity venous doppler ultrasounds were performed and revealed chronic venous insufficiency, a benign and common condition, particularly in individuals over the age of 70,” Leavitt said, also quoting the memo.
Leavitt said the president had “no discomfort,” and “As for the treatments, I can defer to the president’s physician, and we’ll get you this letter.”