How Can Truck Drivers Manage Or Reduce Hypertension?

Truckers or those in any number of delivery businesses don’t always get the exercise they need. A lack of exercise can lead to muscle atrophy, weight gain, and a handful of other ailments. Though also a hereditary consideration, hypertension is frequently associated with weight gain and obesity. When looking at the adult population of America, approximate one out of three, or 29%, suffer from hypertension (according to the CDC).

For those not familiar, high blood pressure is referred to as hypertension, and it is frequently ignored and misunderstood. Mickey Genuine Parts wants to help our community clear up some of those misunderstandings.

First Things First – What’s Hypertension?

As just mentioned, hypertension is another way of referring to high blood pressure. If not prevented, or if it goes untreated, it can lead to stroke or heart disease. The third greatest killer in America is stroke. And at number one is heart disease.

You may be able to relate to this: compare high blood pressure to, before heading out on your next delivery, filling your tires with a few extra pounds of air. Everything still looks fine – the tires show no stress. But as that air expands due to friction during your drive, the innertube is going to run out of space in which to house that expanding air. What could result is a blowout.

Being Aware of Hypertension

Outward symptoms and signs of hypertension are not always evident. Direct symptoms can include shortness of breath, nosebleeds, or headaches, but this usually does not occur until dangerously high levels have been reached.

The following are a number of risk factors that could lead to hypertension:

• Stress
• Too Much Salt Intake
• Lack of Exercise or Activity
• Overweight
• Sleep Apnea

Treating and Preventing Hypertension

Eventually, many individuals will be affected by hypertension, particularly as they age. Keeping high blood pressure at bay can be made easier through exercise. But how can someone like a trucker get in a good workout? Here are a few suggestions:

• Yoga – This could even be done inside your truck! Eventually, you can increase cardio intensity through stretching and breathing with this all-round exercise.
• Breathing practices – Deep breathing and meditation can reduce stress and are helpful tools for lowering high blood pressure.
• Remember to stretch – Definitely while sitting, but possibly even during driving, don’t forget to stretch whenever possible.
• Strength training – You don’t even need to carry a lot of equipment to exercise through this manner, and it can be done while sitting. A couple of jugs of water or some inexpensive hand weights can help strengthen hands and arms. And they can be used as time and circumstances allow.
• Jogging or walking – Try parking as far away as possible if you’re just running in and running out of a location. Try jogging instead of walking. Every little bit helps!

On Your Days Off

And though not for everyone, something called high-intensity interval training is a great way to exercise. It takes some discipline, and a chunk out of your day, but can be worth it. It involves a high output of exercise in short bursts lasting anywhere from 15 seconds up to several minutes. Between bursts, short recovery periods separate the brief but intense exercise sessions.

With a huge inventory of parts, and certified service centers throughout United States, the stress of being a truck driver can be considerably lessened knowing that Mickey is there for you. If you would like to find out more about Mickey Genuine Parts, or hear what Mickey has to offer, contact us today.