If you're considering truck driving jobs, it is important to know what you're getting into. Driving a truck can be demanding and dangerous. Staying healthy and knowing the rules of the road are vital to your success. Here's what you need to know about staying safe and healthy with truck driving jobs.
Dehydration:
It is important for truck drivers to stay hydrated, especially in the summer months when temperatures can get extremely hot. Dehydration can lead to a number of health problems, such as headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.
You can combat dehydration by drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugary drinks like soda.
Obesity:
It is a well-known fact that obesity rates in the United States are skyrocketing. What many people don't know is that this epidemic is affecting truck drivers as well. A study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that nearly seven in ten truck drivers are obese. This number is even higher for long-haul truck drivers.
When you eat healthy on the road and make time to exercise, you can stay at a healthy weight.
Diabetes:
Diabetes rates are on the rise in America. This disease is especially prevalent among people with truck driving jobs. Simply switching from pop or soda to water makes a huge difference. Additionally, truck drivers should avoid smoking and alcohol and live a healthy lifestyle when outside of their cab.
DVT:
Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, is when a blood clot forms in the veins and travels throughout the body putting you in danger. If the clot travels to the lungs or brain, the blockage can be deadly. Truck drivers are at a higher risk for DVT because they often sit for long periods of time without moving.
To avoid DVT, take breaks as often as possible in order to walk around and stretch your legs.
Heart disease:
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Truck drivers are at a higher risk for heart disease due to the sedentary nature of their job and the unhealthy food options available on the road.
You do not have to give up on truck driving jobs to avoid heart disease. You simply need to make healthy choices when driving and allow time in your schedule for exercise. Be creative. You can do lunges or push-ups as you walk around your truck each morning for a safety check or challenge yourself to do 50 jumping jacks whenever you fill up on fuel.
High blood pressure:
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common condition that can lead to serious health problems. Truck drivers are more likely to have high blood pressure due to the stress of their job and the unhealthy lifestyle choices available on the road.
Avoid stress by learning breathing techniques that you can practice whenever another driver cuts you off.
It is important for truck drivers to maintain their health while on the road. Drivers are at an increased risk for heart disease, obesity, and other health problems. A few simple lifestyle changes, however, can help greatly.