fmcsa hypertension guidelines

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines on high blood pressure specify that commercial vehicle drivers should maintain their blood pressure within a certain range to ensure safe driving. Typically, if a driver's systolic blood pressure exceeds 140 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure exceeds 90 mmHg, control measures must be implemented.

For individuals with mild hypertension, the FMCSA advises controlling blood pressure through lifestyle modifications, such as weight reduction, increased physical activity, and improved dietary habits. Moderate hypertension patients may require, in addition to lifestyle changes, pharmacological treatment. However, the FMCSA regulations state that individuals undergoing pharmacological treatment for hypertension cannot drive commercial vehicles unsupervised unless they can demonstrate that their blood pressure is stable and that there are no side effects impairing their driving ability. For those with severe hypertension, the FMCSA may limit their driving eligibility until their blood pressure is adequately managed.

Consequently, it is crucial for commercial vehicle drivers with hypertension to regularly monitor their blood pressure and adhere to their physician's recommendations. They should also be informed about the FMCSA's regulations to take appropriate actions when necessary.