DOT Physical

I doubled up also and still had problems.
Be sure and tell the person that takes your blood pressure about "white coat syndrome."
Also, ask for a large cuff vs. the medium or small cuff.
The large cuff helped me pass. I almost failed until the doctor used a large cuff.

 

Did this "driver friend" go to Medical School @ Truckstop University? There are several types of blood pressure medications. One will increase your heart rate, double up on that one and you will not pass the physical because of your heart. You also did not give an idea of what you consider high? What was your last reading? If your blood pressure is staying high maybe you need to see your physician and let that person advise you on what to do! You might need to make a change, however, let that "driver friend" stick to driving and stop advising people on medical issues. This is YOUR life we are discussing NOT theirs! I know about a driver who had an issue with his blood pressure, had been taking Lisinopril and the pressure was still high. The doctor changed him to a Lisinopril/Hydrochlorothiazide combo and after a few weeks, his BP was way down. The morale of this, PLEASE get medical advice from an actual physician and not a graduate of truck stop university! PLEASE!

 

No expert here, but to reduce your blood pressure I suggest drinking more water and taking a baby asprin (81mg) both will help thin your blood ahead of your exam, and the extra water will definitely ensure you'll be able to produce a urine sample.

 

I've been taking 81 mg aspirin for probably 30 years. Family physician says it's a good plan.

 

I wish I could say that. I have been taking 81s now for about 10 years. Because I also have a history of heart blockages I am also taking Plavix. If there was ever a drug from Hades it is that one! Back in Feb, I cut myself shaving, small cut just under my nose. I bled for almost 7 hours and finally had to go to the VA ER to get that cut sealed.

 

Cut out salt and caffeine for at least a month before you take your physical. When I say cut out salt I don't mean stop adding it to your food, I mean anything that contains salt in significant proportions, don't eat it.

Food will taste like crap, but you will bring your BP down.

 

No joke, taking viagra 1 hr before will bring it down.

 

This is why some physicians will prescribe diuretics like the one I mentioned in my first post. They are not the best solution by any means, but with the proper precautions can make a big difference.

 

No pun intended??