The mystery behind Donald Trump’s hand bruises explained

President Donald Trump has made an energetic start to his second term in office, but some questions over his health have been raised after pictures emerged earlier this week.

During an Oval Office meeting with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Monday, photographs showed significant bruising on Trump’s right hand. A week earlier, Trump’s hand appeared to have been covered with light-colored foundation during another Oval Office appearance.

The images have sparked new questions about the President’s health. Last month the White House confirmed that Trump had been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a vein condition that had resulted in visible swelling in his lower legs.

USA Today reports that the diagnosis came after bruises on Trump’s hands were investigated. However the White House has also tried to downplay the mysterious marks.

A statement from White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, released last month, claimed that the hand bruising was caused by frequent handshaking in his capacity of president.

It reads: “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. This is a well-known and benign side effect of aspirin therapy.”

The bruises were noted back in February, too, during a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron. At the time, Leavitt made the claim that the bruises were caused by handshaking.

“President Trump is a man of the people,” Leavitt said, adding, “His commitment is unwavering, and he proves that every single day.”

“President Trump has bruises on his hand because he’s constantly working and shaking hands all day every day,” she insisted.

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