Truck driving is a unique profession, just like almost any other job, has the potential to cause various types of health issues for those who choose this career. While some of the health issues related to the movement of goods is due to a long time to sit and drive, others are more related to lifestyle choices that tend to be shared with the industry.
Many trucking companies recognize that some of these lifestyle choices are the heart of many common health problem diagnosed in truckers. They provide programs, support and encouragement for truckers to make a few simple changes in their exercise routine, diet and lifestyle that will lead to a lower risk of these health issues develop.
Obesity
Obesity in the trucking industry does not just stop; it is one of the most important issues is seen in the profession. Obesity is usually a combination of eating the wrong kinds of food; they are highly processed, sugary and fat, and not getting enough exercise. Truckers often eat two or more meals a day of fast food, truck stops or Diners. The good news is that many of these types of restaurants are now providing a healthier alternative to whole wheat breads, salads and fresh fruit and other healthy snacks. However, it is important to truckers know to make that choice and limit their intake of less healthy options.
Obesity itself is the trigger for the next three health issues in this list. The greater weight of the body is more cardiovascular system works, the greater the risk of developing pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes, and a higher risk of having injuries when you are loading, unloading or climbing around the car to ensure the load .
High Blood Pressure and cardiovascular disease
High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease is particularly difficult there may not be any signs until there is a significant health issues. Heart attack, stroke or poor circulation leads to other health complications are common the longer truckers working in the industry.
To make matters worse, many truckers know that they have these conditions to avoid taking prescription drugs for health issue because of their license. This creates a greater risk of serious conditions such as stroke or heart attack occurs, especially if high blood pressure is known or suspected.
Pre-diabetes and diabetes
Pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes does not prevent the driver from operating a truck provided that sugar can be controlled by diet and oral medications. With the new rules you can also able to drive if you have type 1 diabetes, provided you meet the conditions for exemption.
Pre-diabetes is when blood tests reveal levels of glucose rise but not yet in the range to be with type 2 diabetes good news at this point to change your diet and lifestyle can often turn the problem and prevent type 2 diabetes from developing countries .
Back, neck and muscle pain
Strains, sprains and damage to the back, neck and joints are common in the trucking industry. This is partly a combination of loads that truckers are often necessary to move along with sedentary work behind the wheel. Truckers do not take the time to stretch out before the major muscle groups, increasing their change of injury. Repeated injuries, especially in the neck, shoulders, lower back and knee can result in significant and long-lasting types of aches and pains.
Sleep Problems
It is estimated that between 33 and 46 percent of adults and slightly higher in men experience some kind of sleep problems. This includes waking up many times during the night or trouble in staying awake during the day, even if they believe they had a good night’s sleep.
Sleep apnea, which causes disruption in breathing at night, is one of the most common problems sleeping. In this situation really stop breathing for a few seconds because of the collapse of the airway. Snoring can also be a sign of a sleep disorder, but it is not always available.
People who have problems with sleep are more prone to distraction, inattention and sleep in today. Sleep apnea has also been linked to increased risk of vehicles.
Depression
Depression is a common mental health problem in the entire population. However, isolation trucking work together with obesity and other health issues may be related to a higher incidence of depression in the trucking industry.
Other factors may be struggling with the balance of work and family life due to the pressure of work, irregular schedules and stress at work that everyone contributes to the risk of developing depression.
Understanding the most common health issues in the trucking industry can help truckers proactively make changes. Staying fit and healthy, making the right food choices and make time for regular exercise on the road are all recommended ways to avoid these issues for a healthier life.