The medical report detailing President Donald Trump’s third official health examination was released on Friday, May 29, revealing insights into ongoing concerns surrounding his health. The examination was carried out on May 26 and was conducted by Capt. Sean Barbabella, DO, at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
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Among the notable findings was an explanation for the visible bruising observed on the president’s hands over the past year. The report suggested that these bruises stem from frequent handshaking, a common scenario for someone in a position of leadership who engages with numerous individuals daily. Capt. Barbabella noted that the bruising was also related to Trump’s use of aspirin for cardiovascular protection, indicating that this combination led to minor soft tissue irritation. He stated that the bruising was a common and benign outcome of aspirin use, assuring that there were no concerning lesions present.
President Trump publicly shared his positive sentiment regarding the examination through a post on Truth Social, declaring it to have gone “PERFECTLY.” Traditionally, presidents have made their health reports public, though there is no legal mandate to do so. The evaluation process for Trump followed the standard protocol, filtering the findings through the White House, where they typically require presidential approval, which may limit the thoroughness of the information disclosed.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt previously referred to the president’s hand bruising, mentioning that it was primarily a result of his extensive engagements throughout the day, stating that he is “constantly working and shaking hands all day, every day.” Speculation had arisen regarding whether he was receiving intravenous treatments after images surfaced showing bruising on his hands, including instances when he appeared with makeup applied to hide the discoloration.
Previous examinations have indicated Trump’s robust health despite his advanced age. In October 2025, the president underwent a cardiovascular and abdominal scan which he later expressed regret for, feeling it provided fodder for critics. However, Capt. Barbabella affirmed that the scan indicated no abnormalities and was a precautionary measure to rule out potential cardiovascular issues.
During a candid discussion with The Wall Street Journal in January 2026, Trump commented on his hand bruises, attributing them to a higher dosage of aspirin that he considered necessary. Describing his approach as somewhat superstitious, he stated, “They say aspirin is good for thinning out the blood, and I don’t want thick blood pouring through my heart.” This reflects his rather unconventional beliefs regarding health treatments.
The scrutiny surrounding President Trump’s health has intensified since his inauguration in January 2025, as he became the oldest individual to assume the presidency. Since then, he has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a condition that can lead to swelling and discomfort. There have also been instances where he appeared fatigued during important meetings, raising further concerns about his health status.
In March 2026, at a Medal of Honor ceremony, Trump was seen with a rash on his neck, which his doctor attributed to a preventative skin treatment. This incident, among others, has consistently kept his health under the spotlight, with public interest and speculation persisting as he navigates his duties as leader of the United States.
As President Trump continues his term, the regular release of his health evaluations appears crucial, not only for transparency but also to assuage public concerns regarding his well-being. With implications on how such health revelations affect public perception and political standing, future evaluations will likely remain a focal point in discussions related to his presidency.