Trump’s health under scrutiny as doctors weigh risks of his lifestyle and aspirin use
At 78, Donald Trump remains the oldest US president to hold office, yet questions about his health persist. Recent concerns have focused on his doctors' visits, unexplained bruises, and moments of apparent drowsiness during public appearances. The former president has dismissed these worries, attributing his visible marks to high aspirin intake and insisting he remains full of energy.
Trump's current physician, Dr. Sean Barbabella, a Navy captain, has described his recent medical checks as routine. An October CT scan—referred to as 'advanced imaging'—showed no abnormalities. The president has also claimed to have performed exceptionally well on his third consecutive cognitive test. Despite this, he continues to push for mandatory cognitive assessments for all presidential and vice-presidential candidates.
His lifestyle, however, raises concerns among health experts. Trump has long admitted to sleeping little, finding most exercise tedious, and maintaining a diet heavy in fast food. Medical professionals warn that chronic sleep deprivation can heighten risks of heart attack, arrhythmia, and stroke. Genetics may influence longevity, but diet and physical activity become increasingly critical with age. The president's daily high-dose aspirin regimen has also drawn attention. While aspirin can reduce heart risks, excessive intake carries dangers. Overdose symptoms range from tinnitus and confusion to severe complications like gastrointestinal bleeding, brain haemorrhages, or even coma. Those with ulcers face an even higher risk of internal bleeding. Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, and stomach pain, with rare cases leading to life-threatening conditions.
Trump's medical team maintains his recent evaluations were standard and uneventful. Yet his habits—limited sleep, minimal exercise, and a fast-food-heavy diet—contradict typical advice for ageing adults. The long-term effects of his high aspirin use, combined with his lifestyle, remain a topic of discussion among health specialists.
