Photos of former President Donald Trump with a bruise on his hand have once again gone viral, prompting waves of speculation across social media. Many users are even drawing parallels to the late Queen Elizabeth II, who appeared with a similar mark on her hand just two days before her passing in 2022.
Viral Photos Raise Questions
According to USA Today, close-up images taken in the Oval Office on August 22 revealed a patch of skin on Trump’s hand seemingly concealed with foundation makeup. Days later, on August 25, the bruising appeared more prominently during his meeting with South Korean President Lee Jae-Myung—rekindling online debate about his health.
TRUMP HAND DRAMA CONTINUES: Donald Trump photo shows large mark on hand as fears swirl over his health and aging
UK MIRROR: President Donald Trump was seen with a noticeable layer of makeup on his right hand, amid concerns about his health and cognitive abilities….… pic.twitter.com/mf9cAhQXR2
— Brian Harrod (@GetTheDailyDirt) August 24, 2025
Comparisons to Queen Elizabeth II
Observers were quick to note the resemblance between Trump’s bruising and the purple discolouration visible on Queen Elizabeth’s hand shortly before her death. The similarity has fueled speculation and concerns about whether the former president is facing serious health issues.
White House Explanation
The White House, however, has downplayed the concerns. Officials attributed the bruising to minor irritation from frequent handshakes combined with Trump’s regular use of aspirin, which can thin the blood and make bruising more visible.
In a July 17 press briefing, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt revealed that Trump had been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)—a common and non-life-threatening vein condition. White House physician Dr. Sean Barbabella also reassured the public, calling the bruising a benign symptom of the disorder.
People are comparing Donald Trump’s hand bruise with Queen Elizabeth’s, who had a similar mark two days before her death. The White House says it’s due to aspirin and frequent handshakes.
What do you think? pic.twitter.com/5TTT61kg3E
— Akshit (@CaptainGzb) August 26, 2025
What Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, CVI occurs when veins in the legs are damaged and unable to circulate blood effectively back to the heart. This can lead to blood pooling in the veins, causing swelling, pressure, and sometimes visible bruising. While not fatal, the condition can cause discomfort and, if untreated, may develop into more serious complications over time.
Symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency
- Achy or tired legs.
- Burning, tingling or “pins and needles” sensation in legs.
- Cramping at night.
- Discoloured skin that looks reddish-brown.
- Edema (swelling)
- Flaking or itching skin on your legs or feet.
- Full or heavy feeling in your legs.
- Leathery-looking skin on your legs.
- Ulcers (open sores)
- Varicose veins.
