In a candid revelation, former US President Donald Trump has acknowledged using specific medical aids and cosmetic techniques to manage and conceal visible signs of health-related issues. This comes as public scrutiny around his age and physical condition continues to grow.
Compression Socks and Swollen Ankles
The 79-year-old politician confirmed to The Wall Street Journal that he has worn medical compression socks to treat swelling in his ankles. This condition, often referred to as "cankles," drew widespread attention after photographs from public appearances highlighted the issue. Trump stated that he later discontinued using the socks because he disliked them, despite medical advice to continue.
According to the interview, Trump visited Walter Reed Hospital in mid-2025 after experiencing mild swelling in his lower legs. Medical tests, including an ultrasound, led to a diagnosis of chronic venous insufficiency. His physician described this as a common, age-related condition where blood has difficulty traveling from the legs back to the heart, and recommended compression socks and regular movement as treatment.
Trump mentioned he tries to follow advice to stand up and walk around more often to reduce swelling. However, he rejected more strenuous exercises like treadmill workouts, framing walking as the primary physical activity he is willing to adopt.
High-Dose Aspirin and Concealing Bruises
In a significant disclosure, Trump revealed he takes a daily dose of 325 milligrams of aspirin for cardiac protection. This is four times the standard low preventive dose. He admitted maintaining this higher dose for decades out of superstition, despite doctors preferring a lower amount. A known side effect of this high dosage is increased bruising and bleeding from minor impacts.
To manage this, Trump confirmed he uses cosmetic makeup on his hands to conceal bruises caused by the blood-thinning aspirin. He described the process as quick and easy, typically applied after his hands get knocked or scraped during public engagements involving handshakes. The article references several official events where his hands appeared bruised, bandaged, or covered with makeup.
White House Responses and Trump's Stance
The interview cited specific incidents, including a minor cut from a ring during a high five at the Republican National Convention that led to bleeding. Aides indicated such occurrences have happened repeatedly. Previously, the White House had downplayed concerns, attributing any visible marks to Trump's constant handshaking and heavy workload rather than underlying health issues.
Despite these detailed confirmations about his health management, Trump firmly dismissed any suggestion that his mental or physical health is deteriorating. He insisted he remains in excellent condition, crediting his resilience to "good genetics." This rare moment of candour provides a clearer picture of the measures taken by the former president to address age-related health challenges while maintaining a public image.
