Your blood pressure will be checked during your DOT physical. Working out 30 minutes a day a few times a week can help lower your blood pressure.
Federal law requires drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) to receive regular physical examinations under the Department of Transportation. DOT physicals are highly regulated for the drivers’ safety and are designed to detect physical, mental, and emotional issues that can affect a driver’s ability to safely drive a commercial vehicle. Employers cannot have drivers out on the road without a valid DOT card. That means that you can’t legally do business unless your CMV driver is cleared for the road. Because of this, DOT physicals are a must-have if you’re a commercial driver or employ commercial drivers.
What Should I Expect?
A DOT exam will include an evaluation of an employee’s vision, hearing, blood pressure/pulse rate, and overall physical ability. It will also test for illegal drugs. If drivers take any medications, they’ll need to bring a complete list to the exam, including the doses and doctors’ information. Any drivers that require corrective vision or hearing need to bring their eyeglasses, contacts, or hearing aids. If drivers suffer from any other medical condition, they may be required to bring additional information.
Blood Pressure
When you have your DOT physical, we will check and record your blood pressure. Blood pressure is measured as a ratio of two measurements, your Systolic and Diastolic pressures. The Systolic number is the top one and measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats. It is the higher of the two numbers. Diastolic pressure is the bottom number and measures the pressure in the arteries between beats. If a driver’s pressure is too high they cannot be certified. Here are some natural ways to help lower your blood pressure:
- Losing weight, even 10 pounds, is one of the best ways to lower blood pressure.
- Get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, even brisk walking, 3 times a week.
- Eat a healthy diet- watch the red meat and make sure to include fish with good oils.
- Avoid drinks and food high in sodium.
- Garlic, in tablet or pill form or natural, is considered by many to be helpful for blood pressure.
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Evan Transportation provides trucking and transportation services for clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. All of our drivers and staff are offered competitive salaries, benefits, and are guaranteed to be home every day. Interested in finding out more? Visit us online or give us a call at 443-673-3365. For even more information, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and Google+.