What is Blood Pressure/Hypertension ?
Blood pressure or Hypertension is the force at which your blood is being pumped around the body. Blood is carried in Blood vessels. When we measure your readings, we are measuring at the force this blood is being pushed out by your heart into your body.
Is High Blood pressure dangerous?
In short, Yes. Very High pressure can cause you blood vessels to burst which can lead to bleeds in the brain or elsewhere.
What are the HGV Medical Or Taxi Medical Limits ?
When going for your medical you must obtain a reading less than 180/100. You will be allowed the best of 3 readings over 5 minutes. If you have a reading above this, the DVLA class this as a fail and you will be given instructions to see your GP Urgently.
What is White Coat Hypertension ?
White coat hypertension is an ever increasing phenomena. It describes where an individual with normal readings will suddenly get very High readings when they are placed with a medical professional. It is called White Coat as the trigger for the high readings is seeing the White Coat of the Doctor. Typically when the person is relaxed and away from a Doctor the readings will go back to normal.
The only way to accurately suspect this is comparing Home Blood pressure readings and those when the individual is in clinic. The only way to further prove this is by having a Blood pressure monitor attached to you for over 24 hours.
Why is it called the Silent Killer ?
High Blood pressure does not normally cause any symptoms. You could be lying asleep or enjoying a coffee with no symptoms. However over many years of Hypertension can lead to many long terms problems. It can cause your heart to weaken, Your kidneys to fail and also cause small bleeds into your eyes. The good thing is, this normally takes many years of Hypertension so if we catch it early we can fix it.
How can I reduce it ?
- Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight puts strain on your heart and can contribute to high blood pressure. Aim for a body mass index (BMI) within the healthy range for your height.
- Adopt a balanced diet: Follow the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products. Reduce sodium (salt) intake, limit processed foods, and consume foods rich in potassium, magnesium, and calcium.
- Exercise regularly: Engage in aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling, for at least 150 minutes per week. Physical activity can help lower pressure and improve overall cardiovascular health.
- Reduce sodium intake: Limit your daily sodium intake to around 1,500-2,300 milligrams. Be mindful of hidden sources of sodium in processed foods and opt for fresh, whole foods whenever possible.
- Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can raise blood pressure. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation, which means up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.
- Quit smoking: Smoking can raise your blood pressure temporarily and damage your blood vessels in the long run. Quitting smoking has numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as practicing relaxation techniques (deep breathing, meditation, yoga), engaging in hobbies, or seeking support from friends and family.
- Limit caffeine intake: While the evidence regarding caffeine’s effect on blood pressure is mixed, some individuals may be more sensitive to its effects. Consider reducing your caffeine intake or monitoring how it affects your blood pressure.
- Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Poor sleep or sleep deprivation can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues.
- Monitor: Regularly check your pressure at home with a reliable monitor. This can help you track your progress and identify any changes that may require medical attention.
Remember, these lifestyle changes are generally beneficial, but it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and to discuss any medication or treatment options that may be appropriate for your situation.
You can read more about it on the NHS site.
I am a Driver, What can I do?
Remember to watch your diet and make sure you keep an active life. As a driver you can sometimes not move much and as a result become unfit. This can lead to high pressure.
Will you Test Blood Pressure in a Medical ?
Whether its a HGV Medical, D4 medical, Taxi Medical. All driver Medicals require a Blood pressure reading. If this is very high repeatedly, you will ail your medical. Also if you control it with medication you can still pass your medical.
If You Book Here you will be taken care of by DriverDoctors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get a D4 Medical form from?
Please download from the DVLA Website. Furthermore also from our website during your application.
Where can I get a Taxi Medical form?
Please download Your Taxi Form from the Internet and also you can also Directly ask your council.
Do I need my medical history from my GP?
For a HGV/D4 form your form can be completed without a medical summary.
Then For different councils, different rules apply. Some councils require no medical history, some require a summary and some require full medical records.
Please consult with your council before booking your medical.
Will The Doctor Need to see my ID?
Yes, your doctor will need to see photographic ID moreover to prove who you are. Furthermore Taxi councils specify which I.D they accept.
How long is my D4 Medical form valid for after my medical?
The form must reach the DVLA within 4 months of the assessment.
Yes you can fail and also you will be told if you have and the steps you need to take so you can rectify the situation.
Can I wear glasses/contact lenses?
You can wear glasses or contact lenses to pass your medical. Furthermore If you wear contacts you may be asked to remove them, so bring a spare pair. You must also bring your prescription with you if you wear glasses.
How can I obtain my medical records?
You can request your GP records from your own practice by asking the reception staff. They may charge you for this. Also You must check with your council before booking if you require any records, a summary or full records.
Furthermore This must be done or you medical may not be able to be completed.
Please call or email us if you require a medical to be cancelled, also please note we this must be done within 72 hours of your appointment otherwise we will not be able to issue a refund.
All forms are completed by doctors therefore you can be assured by our service.
Assessing fitness to drive: a guide for medical professionals
D4 medical examination report for a Group 2, bus or lorry licence
Information for drivers with diabetes treated by non insulin medication, diet, or both.
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