Trump Reveals High Aspirin Dose Amid Health Scrutiny in Interview

U.S. President Donald Trump disclosed in a recent interview with The Wall Street Journal that he takes a higher dosage of aspirin than recommended by his doctors. This revelation comes amid growing scrutiny regarding his health as he approaches his 80th birthday. Trump attributed the visible bruising on his hands to this increased intake, stating, “They say aspirin is good for thinning out the blood, and I don’t want thick blood pouring through my heart.”

In the interview, published on October 12, 2023, Trump, who has been taking aspirin for over 25 years, expressed his belief that a larger dose contributes to better health. “I want nice, thin blood pouring through my heart. Does that make sense?” he asked, emphasizing his long-standing use of the medication.

Health Concerns and Medical Insights

The conversation is significant, as it marks one of the most extensive discussions Trump has had about his health amid increasing questions regarding his fitness for office. Observers have noted persistent bruising on his hands, particularly on the right, which he has attempted to conceal with makeup and bandages. Additionally, concerns have been raised about swelling in his legs and his occasional drowsiness during public appearances.

According to Dr. Sean Barbabella, Trump’s physician, the president currently takes 325 milligrams of aspirin daily. The Mayo Clinic defines a low dose of aspirin, typically recommended for heart health, as ranging from 75 to 100 milligrams, with 81 milligrams being the common recommendation. Although aspirin can prevent clotting, it poses risks, including excessive bleeding, particularly in older adults. Recent guidelines have advised against daily aspirin use for many individuals over 70, suggesting that the risks may outweigh the benefits.

Medical Procedures and Lifestyle Choices

The interview also touched on a recent medical scan Trump underwent in October, which he initially described as an MRI. Upon clarification from the Journal, he stated it was a CT scan aimed at ruling out cardiovascular issues. Barbabella confirmed that the imaging results for Trump’s cardiovascular and abdominal systems were “perfectly normal.”

In discussing his overall health, Trump acknowledged issues with swelling in his lower legs, diagnosed as chronic venous insufficiency—a common condition among older individuals. He mentioned trying compression socks but found them uncomfortable. Moreover, he expressed a lack of interest in regular exercise, calling it “boring” and dismissing the idea of spending time on a treadmill.

As the oldest president in U.S. history, Trump’s health remains a focal point of public interest. The White House has previously attributed the bruising on his hands to frequent handshaking and the effects of aspirin. While medical experts have indicated that there is no immediate cause for concern, the lack of transparency surrounding the president’s health continues to provoke questions.

CNN has sought comments from the White House regarding Trump’s statements in the interview, underscoring the ongoing scrutiny of his health as he prepares for the next presidential election cycle.