Understanding DOT blood pressure requirements is essential for your success. Without knowledge of the regulations, you could lose your vehicle ability. That is why you should pay close attention to the information on this web page. It explores crucial DOT policies that will affect both your career and health. Must visit the Motor Carrier Authority

What Is the definition of High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure refers to hypertension. It is a very common health issue in the United States. Almost half of all adults struggle with high blood pressure. Hypertension happens when blood pressure exceeds 130 mm Hg. This reading refers to systolic blood pressure. Also, hypertension involves an 80 mm Hg reading for one’s diastolic blood pressure. Many people with high blood pressure do not even know that they have it. As a truck driver, you must find ways to keep your blood pressure under control. Having good health will allow you to continue driving commercial vehicles. Otherwise, you risk failing the Department of Transportation (DOT) physical. Viewing the questions below should help you prepare for an upcoming DOT exam. Also, take a look at the Drug and Alcohol Program policy. What is DOT Clearinghouse Enforcement?

How Does the DOT physically define Normal Blood Pressure?

Here’s how the DOT defines normal blood pressure. It’s any reading that’s below 120/80 mm Hg. Many people will refer to this reading as “120-over-80.” Now, let’s go over how the DOT defines elevated blood pressure about a physical. A 120-139 systolic and 80-89 diastolic counts as high blood pressure. But this type of reading will not get you flagged by the DOT after an exam.

Does the DOT Physical Assess High Blood Pressure?

Yes. Here’s the blood pressure limit that the DOT uses during physicals. It’s any reading above 140 systolic and/or 90 diastolic. If that's your reading, it means you have high blood pressure according to the DOT. Now, say that your reading goes below these numbers. That means no future actions need to take place.

Let’s say that you have a high blood pressure reading at your DOT physical. The DOT will put a series of stages in place. Stage 1 involves taking a DOT physical on an annual basis instead of every two years. During Stage 2, the DOT will allow you to drive your commercial vehicle. But you will have three months to reduce your blood pressure to Stage 1 status. Then there’s Stage 3. This is where you cannot drive your truck until you get your blood pressure in control. You will need driver qualification files filed out by all employees that drive for you working. Also, take a look at What Is IRP or Apportioned Registration.

I Have High Blood Pressure. Can I Pass My DOT Physical?

You can pass a DOT physical if you have above-normal blood pressure. But say that your blood pressure’s too high. The DOT will not allow you to pass the physical. Blood pressure gets measured based on two unique figures. First, there’s systolic blood pressure. This is the force that your heart uses to pump blood. Then you've got diastolic pressure. This is the between-heartbeat pressure within your blood vessels. Both readings get measured using mm Hg: millimeters of mercury. How To Pass Dot Drug Test?

Here's how the DOT defines high blood pressure. It’s reading between 140-159 systolic and/or 90-99 mm Hg diastolic. (Thus, 146 101 blood pressure would not count. But 109 82 blood pressure would.) This refers to Stage 1 high blood pressure. Let’s say that you have blood pressure within the Stage 1 range. You will pass your DOT physical. But you must take a physical on an annual basis.

Now, say that your blood pressure reading at a DOT physical comes out to the following. It’s between 160-179 systolic and/or 100-109 diastolic. This gets considered a Stage 2 high blood pressure reading. The DOT will grant you a three-month certificate. Then, you must reduce your blood pressure to at least 140/90. Meanwhile, a reading like 150 93 blood pressure would count as Stage 1. So would 158 105 blood pressure or 145 91 blood pressure? But is 134/80 blood pressure ok? Yes, because it’s below a Stage 1 BP reading. Check out The Basics of Farm Exemptions. You will then have the ability to maintain complete motor carrier authority or broker.

You could also receive a Stage 3 blood pressure reading. This happens when the reading’s higher than 180 systolic and 110 diastolic. You will not pass your DOT physical with this reading. But you can get back to driving your commercial motor vehicle in the future. That will happen if you lower your blood pressure to 140/90 or below. Say that takes place. The DOT will allow you to drive your vehicle for six months. Read about how to obtain MC Number.

Then, you must receive another physical. If you pass the physical, you can have biannual checks performed.

What's the Highest Blood Pressure I Can Have While Passing a DOT Physical?

179/109 is the highest reading you can have while still passing your DOT physical. If that happens, your medical examiner will have some concerns. No matter what, you'll need to focus on reducing your blood pressure for the sake of your health. That's when lifestyle changes and medication become crucial options. Read about how to obtain MC Number.

Can I Pass My DOT Physical While Taking Medication for Blood Pressure?

Yes. You have the right to take medication that prevents high blood pressure. In fact, it’s common for many trucking professionals to have a prescription. The DOT will not stop you from driving because you take medication. Must visit UCR registration.

How Can I Lower My Blood Pressure To Pass an Upcoming Physical?

It’s best to start taking action right away to lower your blood pressure. First, consider shedding some pounds. Living overweight causes many health issues related to blood pressure. The more you weigh, the harder your heart has to work to pump blood. One fast way to lose weight is to exercise. Even twenty minutes of walking per day can reduce your blood pressure over time.

You can also reduce the intake of sodium in your diet. The more sodium you ingest, the higher your blood pressure becomes. In fact, try focusing on eating more healthy foods.

These include fruits, vegetables, and lean protein. You can even consider limiting your alcohol intake. Too much alcohol raises blood pressure. Also, do you smoke? If so, please try to quit. Smoking’s proven to increase blood pressure. Must visit IFTA Sticker Registration steps.

What Is White Coat Syndrome?

Here's a definition of “white coat syndrome.” It’s when you're anxious while getting your blood pressure checked. As a result, your BP reading can appear high even if you're healthy. If you feel nervous, tell the examiner. Then, ask to have your blood pressure taken a few extra times.

What Will Take Place at My DOT Physical?

Sure, your DOT physical will include a blood pressure measurement. But it will also feature other health check-ups. These include vision, urinalysis, hearing, and a standard physical exam. You might need to provide previous medical records at your physical. Say that you pass the DOT physical. You can then receive an official DOT medical certificate.

Questions About DOT Blood Pressure Requirements?

Let Us Know Our organization’s standing by to help you understand crucial DOT physical requirements. Please give us a Phone Call right now to learn more information. Our experts can walk you through standard DOT blood pressure assessments. This way, you'll know more about what to expect at your physical exam.