US President Donald Trump has said that large bruises visible on his right hand were caused by daily aspirin use and rejected claims that he had fallen asleep during public engagements, according to an interview published by The Wall Street Journal on Thursday.
Addressing questions surrounding his health, Mr Trump said aspirin taken to thin his blood was responsible for the bruising. “I don’t want thick blood pouring through my heart,” he told the newspaper, adding that he sometimes uses makeup or bandages when the hand is injured.
Read More: Trump diagnosed with vein condition after swelling and bruising
The 79-year-old president, the oldest person to assume the office, also dismissed broader concerns about his well-being, stating that his health was “perfect” and expressing irritation over continued scrutiny.
Speaking with the WSJ, Trump claimed he takes high doses of aspirin, which he says is why his hands bruise so easily. Despite doctors advising him to take less, he refused, citing “superstition.”
“They say aspirin is good for thinning out the blood, and I don’t want thick blood… pic.twitter.com/45KOUgHVas
— Republicans against Trump (@RpsAgainstTrump) January 1, 2026
Mr Trump has frequently projected an image of vigour through regular public appearances, frequent social media activity and promotional imagery portraying him as physically strong. However, questions have emerged during the first year of his second term, particularly after recurring bruises on his hand and visible swelling in his ankles were observed during public events.
The president has also faced criticism over moments when he appeared to struggle to keep his eyes open, including during a televised Oval Office meeting with health officials in November. The issue carries political sensitivity, as Mr Trump has often labelled his Democratic predecessor Joe Biden as “sleepy”.
In the interview, Mr Trump acknowledged earlier inconsistencies in his statements regarding a medical scan conducted in October. He previously told reporters that he had undergone an MRI, but told the Journal that it was instead a quicker CT scan.
Read More: Taking an aspirin daily reduces chances of ovarian cancer: study
His physician, Dr Sean Barbabella, confirmed that a CT scan had been carried out to rule out cardiovascular issues. The doctor said the procedure was precautionary and found no cause for concern.
Mr Trump also offered an explanation for one visible cut, claiming it occurred when Attorney General Pam Bondi accidentally struck his hand with a ring during a high-five.