Trump Has Annual Physical at Walter Reed Amid Health Scrutiny

Donald Trump underwent his routine annual physical examination on Tuesday at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, after months of public attention on a series of apparently minor health issues. Trump turns 80 next month. The White House has said recent visible ailments were benign and has pointed to testing that it says shows strong cardiovascular health.

Recent photographs showing a blotchy neck rash drew renewed questions about Trump’s condition, after images in July 2025 showed swollen ankles and a bruised hand. White House physician Sean Barbabella has said the neck rash is being treated with a common preventative skin cream, without providing details on the specific condition.

In a letter released last July, Barbabella said Trump’s leg swelling was caused by a “common” vein condition and that there was no evidence of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease. Barbabella also said the bruising on Trump’s hand resulted from extensive handshaking.

The physical comes as public scrutiny of the health of U.S. political leaders has intensified in recent years. Trump has frequently portrayed himself as energetic, while questions about age and fitness have featured prominently in broader political debate.

Testing and White House disclosures

In October, Trump underwent a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan that the White House initially described as showing “exceptional physical health.” The White House did not provide details on the reason for the scan at the time.

Trump later said the MRI was part of a second physical examination. Medical experts have noted that MRIs are not typically part of a routine physical and are usually ordered to obtain detailed images of the body.

In a memo following that second exam, Barbabella said Trump’s “cardiac age” — described as a validated measure of cardiovascular vitality via electrocardiogram (ECG) — was found to be approximately 14 years younger than his chronological age.

Questions likely to persist

Trump has also faced questions after appearing to close his eyes during several meetings, including a session with his Cabinet. Trump has denied falling asleep and has attributed the moments to boredom.

The White House has not indicated when it plans to release any further details from Tuesday’s examination.