President Donald Trump has faced fresh scrutiny over his health after photographs from a White House ceremony on Monday showed a bright red rash on the side of his neck. The 79-year-old president was seen with what appeared to be a large, red rash and scabs extending from his right ear to the back of his head during a Medal of Freedom event.
White House physician Dr. Sean Barbabella attributed the irritation to a preventative skin treatment, stating: “President Trump is using a very common cream on the right side of his neck, which is a preventative skin treatment, prescribed by the White House Doctor.” He added that the redness was expected to last for a few weeks, but did not specify the reason for the prescription or the cream's name.
The neck rash adds to ongoing concerns about Trump's physical and mental health, particularly as he is the oldest president to be sworn into office. He was also seen with a bruise on his right hand, covered by makeup, which has been a recurring issue. White House officials previously blamed hand bruises on frequent handshaking, but Trump told The Wall Street Journal in January that they result from taking a higher-than-recommended dose of aspirin.
Trump said he takes 325 milligrams of aspirin daily for cardiac prevention, instead of the common 81-milligram dose, and applies makeup to cover bruises. His cognitive health has also been questioned, with videos showing him with closed eyes during meetings, though he claims he is not sleeping but relaxing. Last July, he was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, explaining his swollen ankles.
