Close your eyes and picture yourself in a scene that's all too common for professional drivers.
You're stressed out, filled with anticipation for your driver medical. Going to the doctor's office always makes you nervous, and today is no exception. You enter the room, only to be rushed in by a doctor who seems to be racing against the clock. Turns out, they have appointments scheduled back to back like they're speed dating rounds.
You're already feeling anxious, and the hurried atmosphere only adds to your stress. They motion for you to sit down and check your blood pressure. The results come back, and it's off the charts! Then they drop the bombshell: you've got two more chances, and if your blood pressure remains high, you'll flunk the whole medical exam.
Panic sets in your mind as you start thinking about what could happen next.
They decide to check your blood pressure again, and guess what? It's even higher than before! They inform you that you've got just one last attempt. If your blood pressure spikes again, consider this medical mission impossible. You'll have to rebook and try again.
Now your stress levels have reached stratospheric proportions. They prepare to take your blood pressure for the third time, and alas, it's higher than a kangaroo on a trampoline.
They break the news: you've flunked the medical. You need to start from square one and rebook. Unfortunately, they can't tell you when the next available slot is, but they generously inform you that you'll need to jump through hoops and call their booking line.
Before chatting about how we at D4YOU avoid this ridiculous cycle, let's clear up the confusion between labile high blood pressure and chronic high blood pressure. Fancy terms, we know, but don't worry, we've got you covered.
Chronic high blood pressure is when your blood pressure is consistently high due to various factors like:
If you happen to have unmanaged chronic high blood pressure during a driver medical examination, we will advise you to consult your general practitioner (GP) for some expert advice. They might suggest some lifestyle changes and potentially starting or adjusting medications, if appropriate.
On the other hand, labile high blood pressure is temporary. It's when your blood pressure shoots up quickly in response to a stressful situation, such as:
Many of our clients actually have labile high blood pressure rather than chronic high blood pressure. How do we know? Well, the moment we let them sit, relax, and have a good old chat, their blood pressure magically returns to normal.
But here's the funny thing: some doctors measure your blood pressure while you're stressed out, leading to exaggerated high readings and unnecessary exam fails.
We make sure you have plenty of time to settle in during your appointment. No rushing allowed!
We even offer you some water and biscuits to make you feel all cozy and comfortable.
And here's the best part: we treat you like a regular human being...what a thought! We'll have a friendly conversation with you instead of being the stereotypical serious-faced doctor.
Of course, if we detect that despite these measures, your blood pressure remains high, at this point we will advise you to see your GP for further assessment.
Many of our clients comment that in other driver medical exams, their blood pressure went through the roof, leading to unnecessary failed tests. But with us, they felt relaxed, and guess what? Their blood pressure stayed within the normal range. So, no need for unnecessary retakes and rebooking another driver medical exam.
So come on over to D4YOU Driver Medicals, where we prioritise creating a relaxed and approachable environment.