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Trump's Health Concerns Spark Medical Debate: Aspirin Use & Swollen Limbs Under Scrutiny

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. te-aspirin-use-swollen-limbs-under-scrutiny.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Friday, January 2nd 2026 at 11:18 GMT by Newsweek
      Locale: New York, UNITED STATES

Donald Trump’s Health: Aspirin Use, Swollen Hands & Ankles Spark Medical Speculation – What Experts Say

Donald Trump's health has been a recurring subject of public interest since he entered the political arena, and recent observations during campaign rallies and public appearances have once again fueled speculation and prompted medical professionals to offer their perspectives. A Newsweek article published on November 27, 2023, delves into these observations, focusing specifically on his reported aspirin use, the appearance of swelling in his hands and ankles, and broader concerns about potential underlying health conditions. While Trump's campaign has largely dismissed such scrutiny as politically motivated, the visible signs have prompted a significant amount of discussion within the medical community.

The Aspirin Revelation & Potential Implications:

The Newsweek article highlights a revelation made by Dr. Bruce Ryden, an orthopedic surgeon who attended a recent Trump rally in Claremont, New Hampshire. Ryden reported observing that Trump frequently took aspirin during his speech, swallowing several tablets with water. This seemingly innocuous habit has sparked considerable debate among medical experts. While aspirin can be used for various purposes – pain relief, fever reduction, and even cardiovascular protection – frequent use carries potential risks, particularly at older ages.

As the article points out, long-term aspirin use is linked to an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers. It's also known to thin the blood, which could be problematic in cases of injury or surgery. While Dr. Ryden didn’t explicitly state why Trump was taking the medication, he speculated that it might indicate underlying pain or inflammation. The article references a previous analysis by Dr. Gilbert Ross, former medical and scientific director of the American Academy of Emergency Medicine, who suggested the aspirin could be masking an existing condition. Ross previously noted that frequent aspirin use often suggests a need to manage chronic pain or discomfort, hinting at potential musculoskeletal issues or other underlying ailments.

Swollen Hands & Ankles: A Visible Concern:

Perhaps more visibly concerning to many observers are the reports of swelling in Trump's hands and ankles during recent appearances. This observation isn’t new; similar instances have been noted throughout his presidency and post-presidency. The Newsweek article references images circulating online showing noticeable edema (fluid retention) in these areas.

The causes of such swelling can be varied, ranging from benign conditions like lymphedema to more serious issues like kidney or heart problems. Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system, responsible for draining fluid from tissues, is impaired. Edema can also be a side effect of certain medications and can be exacerbated by prolonged standing or sitting. However, the article highlights that swelling in both hands and ankles simultaneously raises concerns about systemic conditions impacting fluid balance.

Dr. David Sabgir, a cardiologist, was quoted extensively in Newsweek’s reporting. He has publicly analyzed videos of Trump's appearances and concluded that the edema is likely indicative of underlying cardiovascular issues, possibly related to hypertension or heart failure. Sabgir notes that while swelling can be managed with medication (like diuretics), it often signals an existing problem requiring further investigation. He emphasizes that the visible signs aren’t necessarily definitive diagnoses but warrant medical attention and comprehensive evaluation.

Past Health Records & Ongoing Speculation:

The Newsweek article also briefly touches upon Trump's previous health disclosures. During his presidency, a four-page letter from Dr. Harold Bornstein described Trump as having "normal" vital signs and being in good general health despite some weight and cholesterol concerns. However, the circumstances surrounding that letter – its release before Bornstein had reportedly reviewed Trump recently – raised questions about its authenticity and completeness. The article notes that a more detailed medical report has not been publicly released since then, fueling further speculation.

Dismissals & Political Context:

Trump’s campaign team has consistently dismissed concerns about his health as politically motivated attacks aimed at undermining his candidacy. They have characterized the scrutiny as “fake news” and accused media outlets of spreading misinformation. However, the visible signs and the reported aspirin use persist, making it difficult to completely disregard the observations made by medical professionals and concerned observers.

The Broader Significance:

Beyond the immediate concerns about Trump’s individual health, this situation underscores a broader trend in American politics: the increasing public interest in candidates' physical and mental well-being. In an era of aging political leaders, questions surrounding their fitness for office are becoming more common and potentially impactful on voter decisions. The Newsweek article effectively highlights how seemingly minor details – like aspirin use or swelling – can become significant points of discussion and analysis within the context of a high-stakes political landscape. While definitive diagnoses require thorough medical examinations, the visible signs and reported habits surrounding Donald Trump's health continue to generate considerable speculation and public concern.

Disclaimer: This article is based on information presented in the Newsweek article linked above and associated sources. It is not intended as medical advice and should not be substituted for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.