Are DOT physicals becoming too hard to pass?

Two years ago, I could NOT pass a DOT physical. After rounds with weight loss, getting more fit, and a go-around with high blood sugar, I'm almost there, hoping I can pass one without any BP meds. I've lost 70+ lbs in 9 months, and have a goal of 80 more over the next 24 months.

I CAN easily pass one, but taking BP meds. I want to pass without them. And stay that way forever.

If our lives work out as I suspect, I'll have 3-5 years on the road, and it's my intention to stay fit, strong, and healthy the whole time. And it's going to mean walking at least 1 mile a day 5 days a week, workouts at least 1 or 2 times a week, and eating very sparingly.

You only have one life. I got my wake-up call before it was too late, and I intend to make the rest of mine a good one.

The answer is: No, it's NOT too hard to pass. If you don't, however, you're a danger to yourself, and possibly others on the road.

 

ARE DOT PHYSICALS BECOMING TOO HARD TO PASS?

Good question. Generally I think it depends on one's age.Course there are ALWAYS a few Jack LaLanne's out there. Me? Thinking I may "pass" a kidney stone. Kinda glad in a way-saved a stick from the yard to bite on just for this event.

 

When I went to my doctor she said your gaining weight,and then said oh yeah your a truck driver.good enough excuse for me lol

 

Are you back on the road yet- puttin on more weight? OhOh....








Still want those "cookies"..

 

It's not they are stricter, it is a drivers health gets worse. Awareness is helping some but it takes effort and discipline.

140/90 is borderline fail. A matter of fact that's the limit. Any higher and a doctor would want to put you on meds.

 

I read on one of the threads here that in a lot of places they are only issuing a one year med card if you are on BP meds. Watching what you eat a few days before you are to be tested may help also. Coffee and sodas are supposed to be another thing that will jack up the BP on testing day also.

 

I smoke a joint before I take my physical. Pot mellows me out, man.........

My blood pressure was low enough this last time I was able to get a 2 year card.

 

That's what I'm talkin about.. : For all you Merle Haggard types this has been posted solely for "recreational" purposes..

 

140/90 I gota ask...How does that not scare you? I got told last year that I had high bp and suger in my pee 258 lbs scared the crap out of me!!After being excempt from having to have a medical card for a bit. They wanted to put me on meds I said no way! I dont get how you guys out there just take meds and go about your way all that is a bandage over a huge problem.Not speaking to any one person on here. My bs ended right then and there no more dairy,fryed food,soda,ect hit the gym got some good running shoes and hit it hard now normal bp energy through roof 185 lbs now loveing life.

 

I went for my Physical 2 months ago to renew.It was tougher than before.They did a BMI on me and if i failed,i was off to a sleep apnea test.I would of only got a 90 DAY until ''full'' results were back from sleep apnea test.

If i had sleep apnea then i would have to get the machine and then the Dr would give me the 2 year CARD.

I was lucky and did not go over the BMI..Needless to say they are using the DOT BMI test...


When a CDL driver is required to renew their Medical Examiners Certificate, the driver will now be checked for complications with their bodies ability to exchange oxygen. If the driver appears to be overweight during their examination, a measurement of the neck circumference will be taken along with the height and body weight.

From that data their BMI will be established. If the examiner determines the driver is not in a safe range, the medical examiner may order a sleep study for "Sleep Apnea" before a certified renewal card can be issued. Thus, disqualifying an existing driver or a potential candidate from driving a CDL truck.

The medical examiner may choose to issue a temporary 90 day card and require the sleep study before the 90 days has expired. If the Study is NOT performed, the driver will not be issued a renewal card.

It is also rumored that sometime around 2012-2014, driver's medical information will be electronically filed and stored with The Federal DOT. Pass or Fail.

THE POINT: Borderline CDL drivers need to improve and maintain their health. DOT studies show, people who suffer from Sleep Apnea are 2 to 7 times more likely to fall asleep behind the wheel if not treated