CNN host blasted over Trump health fears days before 'face drops' live on air

Donald Trump's health has become the subject of intense discussion in recent weeks after a series of public apperances. The US leader sparked concerns over his health following a recent public appearance at a 9/11 anniversary memorial service at the Pentagon. While he was at the event, his appearance was being broadcast all over the world, which was when fans noticed Mr Trump's mouth appeared to drop to one side. Days before his televised appearance pictures of Trump's hands had been the most prominent images to spark health concerns during the President's latest term, with dark patches having been seen appearing and disappearing. The White House has, however, said the bruising was down to a combination of "frequent handshaking" and his use of aspirin.

CNN host Jake Tapper addressed Trump's health concerns with Dr Sanjay Gupta on his show, The Lead, on September 5 where the medical practitioner addressed what they know about the US President's health. Jake began: "Sticking to the facts here, we have seen pictures of Trump's hands. He has had bruises on [his hands]. We have also seen pictures of swollen ankles."

He went on: "These are legitimate photographs. What is going on here?"

Dr Gupta replied: "We hear from [Trump's] doctors because we want to rely on data, evidence and facts when it comes to the president's health.

When you specifically talk about his ankles and his hands, for example, something people have noticed... what his doctors have said is this is due to something known as chronic venous insufficiency. Basically, blood is not leaving the extremities as well as it should and he gets swelling. It's not uncommon."

He also addressed the bruising where he suggested as people age the skin on their hands thins and sun exposure can lead to blood vessels becoming more visible.

CNN viewers reacted to the post as one person fumed: "Nothing. That is what you know."

Another echoed: "Look you all go. Will be funny to watch you all revert back to the same way you covered Biden the next time a Dem is in the office."

A third penned: "Really..."

Trump's doctor has maintained that the president is in "excellent health" and that the hand bruise is the result of frequent handshaking and intake of aspirin.

Representative Ronny Jackson, who also served as the physician to the president from 2013 until 2018, has said Trump is "the healthiest president this nation has ever seen".