Tachycardia and DOT Physical

Discussion in 'Driver Health' started by hidden1, Jan 2, 2021.

  1. hidden1

    hidden1 Light Load Member

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    Jan 17, 2013
    Phelan, Ca
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    Hello all...
    Okay, I'm 56 and a getting ready to retire from public school teaching this June. For my final career move, I want to get into trucking. Problem is, I developed tachycardia last year and had an ablation (an out patient procedure that hot wires the heart to lower the bpm). My previous symptoms were dizziness and being out of breath during exercise. With the ablation and meds (which I am being weened off) things are back to normal.
    The big question: Will this prevent me from getting a CDL? Also, even if I do get cleared by a doc, can/will companies reject me?

    Insights much appreciated ;)
     
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  3. Moose1958

    Moose1958 Road Train Member

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    Took me a few minutes, but according to the chart on page 254 of the FMCSA ME handbook, you should be OK. I recommend you look at that chart closely AND GET signed off by your Cardiologist! I highly doubt a ME will give you a card without this! Good luck!
     
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  4. hidden1

    hidden1 Light Load Member

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    Jan 17, 2013
    Phelan, Ca
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    Hi Moose,
    I came across that chart earlier, but wanted to see if others experienced this first hand.
    The reason I bring this up is because when I mentioned trucking to my GP, his best answer was, "It shouldn't affect it, but I'm not sure." Probably my cardiologist is the one whom will have to sign off on the report, but she seems like a tough cookie to break. Just hope she doesn't want to play hard ball on this.

    thanks for getting on this for me :)
     
  5. SRJ

    SRJ Light Load Member

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    I have Atrial-Fib and am currently medicated for this. Documented it on my physical. Only issue was the ME could only issue me a 1 year card vs the 2 year card. I will be renewing my card again next week for another 1 year card.
     
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  6. hidden1

    hidden1 Light Load Member

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    Jan 17, 2013
    Phelan, Ca
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    So to follow up on this, do companies often reject candidates with this condition even though cleared by a cardiologist and passes the DOT physical?
     
  7. kemosabi49

    kemosabi49 Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    I have Atrial-Fib, and I have been assured by my cardiologist and my PCP, who will do my physical, that I will be good to go, if I decide to go back driving. Still have that itch to drive, so who knows if or when I will.
     
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  8. hidden1

    hidden1 Light Load Member

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    Jan 17, 2013
    Phelan, Ca
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    Thanks, kemosabi. That's encouraging to know :)
     
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