What risk is associated with untreated high blood pressure for CMV drivers?

Untreated high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, poses significant health risks, particularly for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. The most serious concern is that it dramatically increases the risk of stroke or heart attack. This is crucial for driving safety, as both conditions can lead to sudden incapacitation, impairing the ability to control a vehicle and thus endangering the driver, passengers, and others on the road.

When a driver experiences a stroke, they may suffer from loss of motor control, confusion, or even loss of consciousness, which would make it impossible to drive safely. Similarly, a heart attack can lead to similar symptoms, including chest pain, shortness of breath, and fainting. These health issues necessitate immediate medical attention and can result in catastrophic accidents if they occur while driving.

While frequent headaches, skin irritation and rashes, and reduced vision clarity can be related to high blood pressure or other medical conditions, they do not present the same immediate and severe risks to driving safety as the potential for stroke or heart attack. This makes untreated high blood pressure particularly dangerous for CMV drivers, as maintaining alertness and control while driving is paramount.