Talking about Hypertension and Driving, some anti hypertension drugs such as clonidone as well as reserpine if taken in high dosages or in case the blood pressure is brought down rapidly, slow reactions down. High blood pressure is a drining risk that also affect one`s ability to drive. Moreover, high blood pressure patients or hypertensives also face the risks and hazards triggered and resulting from strain while driving. Coronary patients may have angina attacks. Hypertensives with a history of cardiovascular problems may have experience manifestation of dizziness. Patients may experience spells of fainting or abrupt retinal hemorrhage which is disabling. High blood pressure patients may also have cluster headaches, Kidney failure and a sensation that things are dancing in front of their eyes.
Lowered or reduced reactions seriously impinge on the driving ability of high blood pressure patients and increase driving risk.
Continuing on hypertension and driving, persons under medication may experience diminished reactions, exhaustion or fatigue, acute attacks of weakness especially when in conjunction with small quantities of tranquilizers or alcohol or if a high blood pressure condition is brought down too rapidly and abruptly. Serious sudden fall in blood pressure once a person gets up after sitting for a long time (orthostatic reactions) can occur in older persons on their own or if undergoing methyldopa treatment. Hypertensive drivers on diuretics can sometimes have decreased serum potassium levels a effect of diuretics.
Eight rules which are a must for hypertension and driving without undue driving risks are no mood drugs, sleeping pills, painkillers or alcohol, no change in drugs or drug dosage without doctor`s advise, regular BP check ups with the doctor and no driving on start or change in medication. Driving in high altitudes and smoking in cars are not done as they are low on oxygen, Avoiding sudden physical exertion such as lifting heavy loads or changing tyres. Long distance driving should not be done without frequent rest stops. And lastly to stop driving immediately if there is tension, fainting sensation or dizziness and lack of concentration. The unwritten rule apart from this eight rules is that do not drive against doctor`s advice. In hypertension and driving, the hypertensive patient`s identification should carry medication types, dosages, last BP reading and contact details of doctor.