DOT Physicals are necessary in order for commercial drivers to get the commercial driver’s license (CDL) renewed. Without a visit to a certified medical examiner, commercial drivers may experience significant delays in their DOT physicals and their trucking career. Thankfully, preparing for a DOT physical is a straightforward process where patients can ensure the examiners gets an accurate picture of their overall health.

Preparing for a DOT physical is a simple process where you need to take a few moments to gather any health information and cut back on stress and other activities that could impede the progress of your physical. Drivers in San Ramon can get DOT physicals right at Instant Urgent Care, but should first make sure they prepare for their exam.

Avoid Caffeine, Salt, and similar foods that raise blood pressure

Limit your intake of caffeine and salt at least a week before your DOT physical. Caffeine is likely to cause an increased heart rate and higher blood pressure. Salt can also increase your blood pressure if you consume too much.

Managing heart rate and blood pressure are key to passing your DOT physical since clinically high levels of either health measure can get you from driving. Sometimes though, drivers may be given strict driving restrictions that make it harder to find consistent trucking routes. Double check nutrition labels and skip out on that morning cup of coffee, or at least skim down a significant chunk on any caffeine products.

Prepare Your Medical History for your DOT Examiner

Bring any health information that is prevalent to your overall health whenever you go in for your DOT physical. This includes medications, medical history, and concerns you have for the physician. Most commercial drivers can get special exemptions on their physical for certain conditions, if drivers demonstrate that medicines or health support devices are keeping these conditions under control.

For example, you wear glasses you should bring them with you too since vision requirements are a big part of the DOT physical. Drink some water before your appointment so you’ll come with a full bladder, ready to give a urine sample. If you’re on any medications you should take them before the exam begins so that they’re fully in your system and working before the physician comes into the room.

Relax before your DOT physical

Just the act of being in a doctor’s office is enough to make many people fail an exam. If you’re stressed out or nervous you’ll have a higher blood pressure and heart rate, causing you to fail the exam. Try to take deep breaths and don’t think about anything going on in your life that adds to your stress. 

Additionally, it helps to take a day or two off before your exam so you can de-stress and relax enough to avoid excess stress levels.

Ask Questions during the DOT exam

If you’re concerned about the exam you’re receiving, don’t be afraid to ask questions along the way. Unfair or improper examination could lead to you losing your driving abilities and your career. If all else fails, get a second opinion from a different physician. 

Don’t delay or try to skip a DOT physical just because you’re afraid of not passing. If you fail, you can always seek treatment for what made you fail and try to retest and recertify at a later date. Speak with your current employer about restricted positions available in the event of a failed DOT physical.

Drivers in San Ramon can complete their DOT physicals quickly and efficiently if they take the time to adequately prepare for their exam!