Really worried about DOT physical

Discussion in 'Driver Health' started by tc1986, Dec 18, 2013.

  1. tc1986

    tc1986 Bobtail Member

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    I currently have a two year DOT card and its about to expire. I'm 27.

    I have to get another physical next month to renew it. It will be done by a company doc that I just applied for. I used to weigh 350 pounds. I have managed to get my weight down to 270lbs. I have sleep apnea but I am compliant and I have the paperwork showing that I am. I currently take two medications. 100 milligrams of topiramate and 10 milligrams of ambien. I do not have high blood pressure and my readings are usually 117 over 80 or somewhere around that.

    I have been really worried about the sleep apnea piece of my health history and also about the medication as well since new regulations in the trucking industry have taken hold (or so i've read) since last time I have had to take a DOT physical. Do you think my chances are good to get another DOT card or do you think I'm screwed? I could be just over thinking too much and worrying too much but I figured maybe someone on here could help ease my mind a little.

    I look forward to your reply and thank you.
     
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  3. CondoCruiser

    CondoCruiser The Legend

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    As long as you are compliant you have nothing to worry about.
     
  4. luvtotruck

    luvtotruck Road Train Member

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    as long as you are reporting your sleep data and that the meds are all prescribed by a Dr. You will be fine!
     
  5. stungjoe

    stungjoe Road Train Member

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    Congrats on the weight loss! That's awesome man!!
     
    pattyj Thanks this.
  6. Dr_Fandango44

    Dr_Fandango44 Road Train Member

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    You didn't state whether your company is stipulating that you be tested for sleep apnea. If they aren't then there is also no mandatory federal compliance with sleep apnea, contrary to popular belief. FMCSA has been ordered to follow the due process before it becomes part of the medical exam. I'm sure it will come, but not yet, so no point worrying about it.
    It's good that you have lost so much weight and I know it's a hard slog to lose it, over time. Your blood pressure is good but if I was you, I would want to get off all meds. That kind of medication can not be the ultimate solution in the long run. IMHO all meds are just a bandaid. Especially at your age. You're still young. Being overweight causes all kinds of problems.
    As stated before as long as the doc prescribed them, then that should be OK, but I'd be curious as to why you are taking those kinds of meds in the first place. You certainly don't want to be taking stuff that's going to inhibit your ability to drive a truck.
    Good luck.
     
    J_FROG Thanks this.
  7. tc1986

    tc1986 Bobtail Member

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    The ambien I was prescribed to take as needed for sleep. Every once in awhile it's hard for me to go to sleep so I will just take one tablet when I know I will be going to sleep for at least 7 to 8 hours so basically when I have a 10 hour reset.

    the topiramate helps regulate the dopamine receptors in the brain to keep them from firing dopamine which is the natural "feel good feeling" all the time when I eat food to keep me from over eating too much, which in turn helps my weight loss.
     
  8. Dr_Fandango44

    Dr_Fandango44 Road Train Member

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    Thanks for the info. It's always unfortunate that you have to take meds to overcome difficulties and I'm sure they help to a certain extent. The only thing is, the meddling Govt is changing the goalposts to some extent and in May of 2014 you will have to go to one of their approved doctors regarding our med cards and physicals.
    So it's good that you have to get a new med card before then. I'm of the opinion that I don't think doctors know what they're doing half the time. I'm rather skeptical of their actions and many times they can be dead wrong.
    you just don't want a new doc to misinterpret what you're taking. The topiramate as I see it has many uses including being an anti epilepsy drug, and to stop convulsions. I would certainly investigate the effects of any drug on your ability to drive a truck. You just don't want the powers that be turn round and deny you a med card because you're taking a drug that they say is inappropriate. If it was me, I would def ask questions. I've been caught out on one occasion on this issue over something really innocuous. I later found out the doc was clueless at what he diagnosed, so that's why I'm rather cynical. I can also understand why you're worried.
    Good luck. I know what it's like to lose weight and stay slim and healthy. You have to take charge of your own health and don't believe everything the doctor tells you !
     
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