Tag Archives: heart care

Why American Heart Month Impacts Truckers

At Gray Transportation, we put the health of our drivers above all else. Although truckers provide immeasurable service to our economy, life on the road does bring certain risks. Limited food options and long hours can lead to unhealthy diets and habits. To stay safe, Gray Transportation recognizes American Heart Month by looking at key preventative steps truckers can take to improve their health.

What Puts Truckers at Risk?

Every year, approximately 735,000 people suffer a heart attack in the United States. From this, habits such as smoking, high cholesterol and blood pressure, as well as limited exercise and excessive body fat, can further increase the risk of heart problems. With long hours, a sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy eating, truckers are twice as likely to be obese compared to other professions. Additionally, they are more likely to smoke and have increased blood pressure and high cholesterol, putting them at a high risk of complications.

How Can Truckers Prevent Heart Attacks?

By exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy diet, you can help improve your overall health even on the road. Although fast food options are the most common along stretches of highway, you can still find healthy options on the menu by substituting a side salad in place of fries, and ditching the burgers for grilled chicken. Instead of potato chips while you are driving, fill up on veggies like carrots or celery that still offer a satisfying crunch. Additionally, do not put off important exercises even if you are in a time crunch. By taking fifteen minutes each day, you can keep your heart healthy and increase overall fitness. Above all, avoid smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke.

How Do You Detect Complications?

In the event of a heart attack, time is one of the most precious variables in limiting damage. If chest pains or feelings such as squeezing or fullness persist, it is not a time to be cautionary. Although this can be as simple as acid reflux, it is important to seek professional assistance in order to rule out the possibility of heart complications, particularly if is paired with back or jaw pain. Similarly, shortness of breath, anxiety, cold sweat, dizziness, fainting, fatigue and nausea are also important triggers.

Although truckers face an increased risk of heart complications, with proper preventative care you can improve your health and decrease the threat. At Gray Transportation, we are committed to providing our drivers with the tools they need to stay fit on the road. Contact us today to find out more about hiring opportunities in the area.