DOT Physical Blood Pressure

I was speaking to my Veterans Affairs Cardiologist about blood pressure meds a while back. I was at one time taking lisinopril. Last year I had my 2nd Cardiac Catheratzion done and the Cardiologist that did it took me off lisinopril and on Metoprolol back in 2018. I went for several years without taking anything for blood pressure. However, since it was discovered I have CAD they put me back on it along with Isosorbide to help with the Angina I suffer from. While writing this comment I took my BP and this is where it stays most of the time today.



I'm not going to rehash my past postings about the trucker lifestyle being deadly! I beg you PLEASE take care of yourself, watch what you eat, and get some exercise!

 

If you’re not blood sugar sensitive and can mentally pull it off, if you do a water fast for 24 hours abd drink about 1.5 gallons of water over about 30 hours with no solid food or sugar intake of any kind, your BP will fall substantially. I mean by an incredible amount. This is for a couple reasons, number one you’re hydrating yourself very well and we’re seeing all the sodium that’s in your system out and all the water your body is retaining out which lowers blood pressure significantly and in addition your organs are working to digest and process any food.

I’ve seen a guy go from 150’s/100’s to like
100/62 or so doing this.

but if you’re borderline hyperglycemic etc, I probably wouldn’t try it.

 

I’m about in the same boat. Lately BP has been close to 140 again. Been taking meds for a couple yrs. Might need an increase. It’s a red flag, I postponed addressing until having a heart attack. Could be a early sign of CAD or PAD.

 

With all due respect, I can't support "quick" fixes just to get a card. High blood pressure is the human body's way of telling you something is wrong. I know I sound like an old fuddy dutty grouch, but drivers would be much better off maintaining good lifestyle habits that involve eating right and getting plenty of exercise. Not going to happen I know, but at least I can dream!

 

140 used to be normal but they want to sell more meds.

 

I do support quick fixes
Fixes are good , quick or slow

 

I go ride my mountain bike a few days of the weeks especially before a physical, I have always had borderline bp even when I was super skinny and in my 20s. A little muffin top belly and my stats get messed up and I have to exercise mainly, I'm getting a bicycle trainer stand to put in the truck to help me ride more often,

 

I’ve been out here driving for about 3.5 years. When I stop for the day or even for my thirty minute break, I get out walk. I have an app that tracks my walking distance. Typically I’ll walk 2-4 miles 5 days a week. Do you know how many other truck drivers I’ve seen out walking other then me in my 3.5 years of doing this? TWO!!!
Another thing that amazes me is not only do they not get out of their trucks and move their bodies in some capacity, they usually just still sit in the driver seat which always baffles me. At least go lay down in the bunk, after sitting in that seat all day the first thing I want to do is get out of it. Lol

the fasting advice was more geared towards those with white coat syndrome Who only occasionally have high blood pressure when going to the doctor. You’re right, if it’s always high, then it’s telling us something.

 

It's a bit strange that when some topics are discussed on these boards I have something about the topic to happen in my world. About 2 hours ago I was informed of a still active driver in his 50s that had a MAJOR MI and had to be rushed to the hospital. I can't get any information because of HIPPA about him. I just know he is still alive. This is why I am on such a rant about staying healthy!

 

The other day I saw a guy doing wind sprints with a weight vest, and he'd run back to a mat and knock out about fifty push ups. I just sat there all lazy like: "Quit making me look bad, bro!" I don't have any weight left to lose, but I really need to bring a set of tennis shoes with me.