ALBAWABA - At the Pentagon ceremony to mark the 24th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, U.S. President Donald Trump's looks drew attention and brought up questions about his health again. People noticed that the right side of his face looked droopy, which led to speculation that he might have had a stroke or a transient ischemic attack (mini-stroke).
Even though his face was not symmetrical, Trump stood next to his wife Melania, gave a speech to the families of victims and military personnel, and was seen raising his right arm in salute. This has made medical evaluations more difficult.
Some experts said that the symptoms could mean a stroke or a temporary stop in blood flow to the brain. These things happen to about 240,000 Americans every year and become more likely as people get older.
Others suggested other reasons, like Bell's palsy, which is an inflammation of the facial nerves, or being tired. Professor Caroline Watkins from the University of Central Lancashire said that having facial weakness alone, without any other symptoms, is not a common sign of a stroke.
Reports also say that Trump has been taking aspirin as a preventative measure, which some doctors say is risky if given to people who haven't had a stroke before.
Health Under Constant Watch
Trump is the oldest elected president in the U.S. at 79 years old, and his health has been the subject of public debate for a long time. He has had trouble with balance, going down ramps, or holding a glass of water in the past. A medical report from July said he has chronic venous insufficiency, which affects blood flow.
More recently, rumors got stronger when photographers caught a bruise on his hand during a meeting at the White House with Polish President Karol Nowrotsky. This happened only one day after Trump had said that rumors about his health were not true.
The White House is trying to calm people's worries.
The White House put out a medical report in April saying that Trump was "fit for duty." His occasional absence from official events, along with bruises and swelling that are easy to see, have kept people suspicious, though.
Health experts say that Trump's condition can't be confirmed without more medical information. But the latest pictures have once again raised questions about his ability to serve, as the political spotlight stays on him.
